Fairview Cemetery tour will be held on Sept. 9 [2006]
By Jackie Young/ Special to the Westford Eagle
Thursday, August 31, 2006

Alfred Lord Tennyson described early burial grounds beautifully, according to the Reverend Edwin Hodgman who wrote a history of the town of Westford in the late 1800s. The reverend quoted the poet's words as follows.

"The stone-cut epitaph remains after the vanished voice and speaks to men ... wafts legendary stories from the dim twilight of the past, and recalls traditions which years may have buried amid the lumber of our recollections."

Fairview is the oldest cemetery in Westford with records dating back to the early 18th century. The Westford Historical Society (WHS) invites all those who are interested in exploring its history and the lives and times of those who lie buried here to a 10 a.m. to noon tour on Saturday, Sept. 9. People should gather at the garage building in Fairview off the Tadmuck Road entrance.

Tour leaders (and there may be changes) include Marilyn Day, Ellen Harde, Bob Oliphant and Pat Louch.

"As we walk, we'll discuss the differences in gravestones and fashion, names of interest and interesting events," said WHS board member, Marilyn Day.

She recalled that the original idea for the tour came from Lois Valleau of the town's Parks, Recreation and Cemetery Department.

Fairview is a gem of a place, a Garden style cemetery with impressive gateways, winding paths, fieldstone walls, magnificent trees (especially the red maples in the fall) and a restful Summer house. People from all walks of life are buried here, from distinguished residents to those interred in a mysterious section of the cemetery called "Strangers Row." Here, there are no markers.

All are welcome to attend the tour which is free of charge. The museum may be reached at 978-692-5550.