As 2018 Comes to A Close

A Brief Reflection

During this year, events sponsored by our Portland Girl Scouts brought new people to East Deering and our Grand Trunk Cemetery to participate in our annual Spring and Fall Cleanup and Planting parties.  Many of the families, like so many members of the Portland community had no idea that this cemetery existed, and on their first visit, were surprised and intrigued by its history.  'I love teachable moments!'

We finally  got our new sign and the new fence for the cemetery, and the sick, old oak tree was removed, improving the health and over-all appearance of the ancient burial ground.

As a result of the Girl Scout Bronze Award project in May, increased numbers of people participated in the Spring Cleanup,  and a new Facebook page was established to pass on information about the cemetery, events and stories of those interred there. 

 I started sharing posts under the title: 'On this day, in_____, (Someone) died.'  This is an opportunity to share what little information I have been able to glean about those whose names have survived in our records.  Here is the link for those who want to access thee page.

.https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofGrandTrunkCemetery/

This Facebook page, and posts from this blog, have  enabled me to connect with others who have ties to descendants of some interred here at the GTC and beyond to other communities.  I am always amazed  at where my research will take me,  particualrily when finding   connections to New England history,and the resettlement of the city of Portland.  It is a continuous adventure.

So to highlight the year, I thought I would share an album of some of these events and achievements.

Laying Flags for Memorial Day

Norma and Ben Sawyer at the Spring Cleanup in May

Kayla Theriault still active in the Preservation of the GTC

The Girl Scout Bronze Award project with activities to encourage greater participation

Fun and Games

Many hands make light work!

Wonderful volunteers

The Bronze Award Candidates and their Leaders

Hand-painted stones express care and hope.

Preparing the new rail fence for the GTC

A section completed

What remained from the old oak tree after it was cut down

The tree was hollow, but the size reveals it was probably at least 300 years old.

The work was completed in August

Planted annuals in June

Portland Cemeteries Crew install the new street sign in front of Presumpscot School

Annual Fall Cleanup and Founder's Day Event

New families particpate on this cool damp day in October.

I am the spectre of Juliette Gordon Low sharing stories with Daisy Girl Scouts

Christmas Wreaths 2018

I think this poem could be said for our GTC

Snow covered the cemetery last February.

A peaceful place for walking and reflecting

Happy Holidays and best wishes for a Happy New Year to come!