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Milestone Fragment
1700s
Maker not marked
USA: Massachusetts, Medford
Stone
a: 11-1/2"h x 7-1/4"w x 1-7/8"d
Loaned by the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts
GL2004.2262a

Top fragment of slate milestone, carved on one side "C / 4" and on the reverse "S / 16." From Medford, Massachusetts. Given to GLMA in 1894 by Samuel Crocker Lawrence, mayor of Medford at the time.


This milestone, which marked a Medford, Massachusetts, bridge, was in place when Paul Revere crossed over the bridge on the early morning of April 19, 1775. The "S / 16" tells passersby that it was sixteen miles to Salem from this marker. The other side, with "C / 4" indicated that Charlestown was four miles away. See also GL2004.2262b (letter that accompanied milestone fragment). For further information, see Newell, Aimee, et.al., "Curiosities of the Craft: Treasures from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts Collection", 2013, p. 126-127.