In the quaint town of Cumberland, Rhode Island, an intriguing initiative is underway that delves into the very essence of the town's identity. With an estimated 160 miles of stone walls, these rugged landmarks are not just a part of the local landscape but a testament to the town's rich history and cultural heritage. The concern, however, is that these historic walls, which wind through woods, border farms and cemeteries, and line roads, could be lost to development.
To safeguard this unique aspect of their town, Cumberland has embarked on a mission to conduct a comprehensive inventory of its stone walls. This project aims to document, evaluate, and ultimately protect these historic structures, ensuring they remain an integral part of the town's future.
"Increasing development pressure may result in the loss of these historic stone walls," the town's document outlining the project states. This sentiment is echoed by Robert Thorson, an Earth Science professor and stone wall expert, who highlights the significance of these walls not just to Cumberland but to all of New England.
New England once boasted an incredible 240,000 miles of stone walls, a testament to the region's history and geology. Thorson, an advocate for their preservation, notes that Rhode Island had the highest concentration of these walls in 1871. However, with development and the desire to mine these stones, their existence is now under threat.
Among the treasures that Cumberland's inventory aims to document is Cumberlandite, the official state rock, which is found almost exclusively in the town. This rare mineral, rich in iron and titanium, adds to the uniqueness of Cumberland's stone walls and the town's historical significance.
Thorson is enthusiastic about Cumberland's initiative and hopes it will inspire other towns to follow suit. He believes that while the will is there, funding and expertise can be barriers, but he is committed to helping other towns officially or unofficially.
"Stone walls are a defining feature of Cumberland's historic and rural landscape, with many dating back to the mid-18th century," the town's document states. These walls, which marked agricultural fields, roads, cemeteries, and animal enclosures, are not just physical structures but important cultural and ecological resources.
The town is seeking a preservation professional to assist in this endeavor, with the aim of not only documenting the walls but also training town staff and historic district commission members to continue this important work. The project will result in a comprehensive stone wall overlay on the town's GIS portal and the establishment of a Historic Stone Wall Preservation Program, which could offer tax credits to property owners to safeguard these walls.
With a budget of $10,500, funded in part by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission and the National Park Service, this project is a significant step towards preserving Cumberland's identity and history.
Personally, I find this initiative fascinating. It's a unique approach to historical preservation, one that recognizes the importance of these stone walls as more than just physical structures. They are a part of the town's identity, its history, and its connection to the land. By documenting and protecting these walls, Cumberland is ensuring that its past is not forgotten and that its future remains rooted in its rich heritage.
What many people don't realize is that these stone walls are not just static remnants of the past but living, breathing parts of the town's ecosystem. They provide habitat for plants and animals, and their existence is a reminder of the town's resilience and its ability to adapt and thrive over centuries.
This project is a testament to the power of local initiatives and the impact they can have on preserving our shared history and cultural heritage. It's a step towards ensuring that the stories these stone walls tell are not lost to time and development.
