The Harvard Cemetery Commission is seeking sponsors to help protect Harvard’s sacred past. In lieu of seeking public funds, the commission is providing an opportunity for the private sponsorship of the commission’s ongoing effort to preserve the ancient Shaker “lollipop” grave markers at the town-owned Shaker Cemetery on South Shaker Road in Harvard.
In 2003, under the direction of Harvard native Jeff Gould, owner of Central Massachusetts Powder Coating, three markers were preserved by carefully stripping the old paint and then powder coating was applied. The results were spectacular. The powder coating is an evenly applied, flat white surface enveloping the lollipop markers within a protective coating. The markers had otherwise been in extreme risk of suffering irreparable corrosion due to direct contact with the earth and exposure to the elements.
In the fiscal year ended June 30, 2011, the Commissioners endeavored to protect 30 more of the markers by powder coating. However, approximately 150 markers still remain exposed to the elements with the costs prohibitive to complete the project with commission funds.
The Harvard Cemetery Commission is offering public sponsorship opportunities to help protect these precious grave markers. For the cost of $100 per marker, your name will be documented with the Cemetery Commission as having helped preserve the monuments upon these hallowed lands. Anonymous donations will also be accepted, as well as memorial donations and donations in tribute to others. Help us preserve Harvard’s past by keeping Harvard’s history alive.
Donations may be sent to the Harvard Cemetery Commission c/o Preservation of Shaker Grave Markers, Harvard Town Hall, 13 Ayer Road, Harvard, MA 01451. Receipts acknowledging your donation will be mailed to those who provide a return address. Check with your tax advisor as to whether your donation is tax deductible. Please make checks payable to the “Town of Harvard” and write in the memo portion of the check “Shaker Grave Markers Project.”
For more information, please contact Harvard Cemetery Commission Chairman Jack Spero at (978) 456-8743 or by email jmspero@charter.net.
Jack Spero, Bruce Dolimount, and Whit Sprague
Harvard Cemetery Commission
