The Friends of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Mark Their 20th Anniversary

BY KEVIN THOMAS PLODZIK

In 2002, a volunteer group of citizens formed The Friends of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery with the mission focused on the continuing enhancement and beautification of and furthering education about that Concord treasure. Guided by a Board of Directors, with full appreciation to those supporters who contribute through an Annual Appeal and otherwise, and in liaison communication and collaboration with the Town’s Cemetery Committee, the organization has successfully continued for two decades, and goes on. Projects like the installation of stone benches, donation of signage at the entrance and the Melvin Memorial, labeling of indigenous trees, and establishment and maintenance of the Handley Commemorative Garden and other planted sites are but a few of the hallmark endeavors that have been realized. In addition, three publications by The Friends share valued information about the Cemetery: a detailed map; Obituaries of Concord Luminaries, significant in that the narratives are original as written at the time of the person’s passing; and Exploring Concord’s Historic Burial Ground. Copies of the publications may be purchased at locations around town. Visit friendsofsleepyhollow.org/publications.html for details. Also included there is a published article by several Board members detailing little-known facts of personages whose resting place is the Cemetery.

In celebration of the 20th anniversary, the Concord premiere showing of the acclaimed, recently released film Daniel Chester French: American Sculptor was featured in June with a public invitation. Included in the film were segments of French’s work found in Concord. The film’s producer, Eduardo Montes- Bradley, introduced the viewing in person. Also present was Donna Hassler, Executive Director of Chesterwood, the Stockbridge, Massachusetts, summer home and studio of the sculptor.

Courtesy of Priscilla White Sturges

All Town residents and holders of post office boxes received in the mail a copy of the Commemorative Booklet detailing the history and accomplishments of The Friends in their two decades of service to the Town.

Another significant anniversary celebratory event will take place on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the 15th Annual Breakfast Event at Concord’s Colonial Inn. The guest presenter will be Beth van Duzer, a Concord research historian and guide, whose topic will be “Concord’s Cemeteries and the Stories They Tell.” At that event, an announcement will be made of the two special permanent giftings to the Town from The Friends. Advance registration for the buffet breakfast and presentation is required and can be done at friendsofsleepyhollow.org. Also, persons who are interested in supporting the work in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery can do so here: friendsofsleepyhollow.org/donate.html. The Friends is a 510(c)(3) charity. Continuing public support is valued as more projects await the attention of The Friends.

Kevin Thomas Plodzik, Ed.D., is the president of the 14-member Board of Directors of The Friends of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Inc. He also serves as a Concord Justice of the Peace, and is the immediate past president of the Town’s Chamber of Commerce Board.