There is a state park right here in Scituate. Granted it is probably the smallest state park but it is here and filled with history. Literally…
Cushing Memorial State Park is located off of Neal Gate Street, which is off of 3A. It is on what at first appears to be a private road with newly developed homes. The road is a dead end and just when you think you went the wrong way you will see the sign for Cushing State Park. It was a frigid cold day when I came across this historical site but I wanted to check out this mystery location that I came across by accident.
I parked my car and started walking up the freshly mulched path, which led to a burial ground. I refer to it as a burial ground because technically a cemetery has to be adjacent to a church or at least that is what my high school history teacher told me. There are a number of head stones surrounded by a beautiful stone wall.
Who is this Cushing guy?
William Cushing was a Chief Justice who served on the Massachusetts Supreme Court. William Cushing was born in 1732. He was born here in Scituate, graduated from Harvard College, and was nominated by George Washington to serve on the U.S Supreme Court. Chief Justice William Cushing spoke out against slavery, rendered a decision to abolish slavery in 1783, and sided with the Rebels when the American Revolution broke out. When his health started to fail he told his wife that he wanted to be buried in his hometown of Scituate, Massachusetts. His wife felt he should be buried at the Norwell Congregational Church but respected his wishes. It is here at Cushing Memorial State Park that Chief Justice William Cushing rests.
There was no TKO’Malleys, Heritage Days, St Paddy’s Day Parades, Morning Glories, First Fridays, beach umbrellas and chairs lining the coast during summer months, leisure boats lining the spit, bike paths, paved roads, or other aspects that make this town the amazing place it is today. Coming upon this park made me realize even back in the 1700’s people shared the love for out hometown of Scituate, Massachusetts.
William Cushing bobble head souvenirs can be purchased here through greenbag.org to make your trip to Cushing Memorial State Park memorable. See below:
