Benjamin Pierce Memorial on Church StreetMy name is Colin Bowker, I’ve been in scouts for 7 years and one of my last requirements for
the rank of eagle scout is to complete my eagle project to benefit the community, this is what I
have chosen as my project. The members of the Salem Veterans council would like your
approval in moving the existing memorial of Benjamin Pierce at the rotary on Church and St.
Peter’s Streets in on open space owned by the City and combining it with a new memorial that
will be placed in the center island next to the pathway that bisects the rotary. The current granite
memorial is approximately 28” by 38” and 10”-14” off the ground. We will remove the current
26” by 18” plaque from the granite and remove the granite itself.
The current bronze marker dedicated to Benjamin Peirce will be attached to the new
memorial alongside a new plaque dedicated to Major General Stephen Abbot, who was captain
of scouts attached to General Washington’s headquarters, as well as a successful merchant
from Salem.
Moving the new monument will serve to put it in a place more viewable to the public as it
will be next to a well used pathway. The new memorial will stand approximately 4 feet tall and
be much more visible and in a better location where all can learn about and pay respects to the
two soldiers it is dedicated to enriching the already extensive Salem Veteran history.
The city of Salem has always shown great respect to it’s veterans and has an abundant
and unique history that should be shared with all. There are currently around 23 memorials
dedicated to veterans around the city, as well as 91 veteran’s squares. The support our town
shows to veterans, past and present, is evident and should be maintained and expanded upon.
These two soldiers present an opportunity to further show our support and investment in the
armed forces and will create more historical context that deepen the roots of Salem back to the
Revolutionary War.
In order for this project to happen we need concurrence from the city for the new monument, as
well as the new bronze marker. The removal of the granite may be difficult and will call for
assistance from the DPW or an independent construction company to remove and properly
dispose of it.
I would like to thank you for your time and consideration for this project on behalf of myself, the
Salem Veterans Council and the Scouts.
This is the current memorial dedicated to Benjamin Peirce.
This is a rendered design of the finished project.
Hereis a map of where the new and old memorials are and will be.