The consideration of a new Logo makes me wonder what are the current Core Values of the City
of Watertown? When I came to Watertown, I was inspired by what I thought was the logo of
Watertown. The picture of a Pilgrim and a Native American exchanging gifts with the caption IN PACE CONDITA, “FOUNDED IN PEACE”.
The iterations of the Logos I have seen are uninspiring. What is symbolic of them? Shouldn’t it
stand for something other than a river running through a City? Does a river speak to you in the
same manner? There are some animals that call rivers their home and it is means of
transportation. However, “Peace” is a worthwhile condition and goal. My question is it the
intent and does a new logo represent the hustle and bustle of a congested city of the future?
It certainly does not symbolize Peace. Is it important for our leaders to have an interest and
emphasis on ensuring that Watertown remains a livable City.
When you Google Watertown you find that Watertown has so much rich history.
The Town/City is rich in diverse culture and history, with beautifully preserved historic places.
There are some notable symbols and historical sites in Watertown (from thebostondaybook.com):
- Site of the Watertown Paul Revere House: This location holds significant historical value. Although the physical house no longer exists, it was once the residence of the renowned Paul Revere. Known for his midnight ride during the American Revolutionary War, Revere played a crucial role in warning the Lexington Minutemen about the incoming British forces. A plaque now marks the site, providing visitors with a glimpse into Revere’s life and times.
- Browne House: Built in 1698, the Browne House is one of the oldest surviving examples of a gambrel-roofed house. Abraham Browne, one of the original settlers in the area, constructed this two-story building with a central chimney and steeply pitched roof. The house showcases early colonial architectural style and is now preserved by Historic New England.
- Historical Society of Watertown: Established in 1923, the Historical Society of Watertown is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the town’s rich history. A significant collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs, providing valuable insights for researchers and history enthusiasts.
- Egyptian Revival Gateway: This architectural marvel stands as a symbol of Watertown’s past. Reflecting the influence of ancient Egypt, the gateway features striking Egyptian Revival style elements. Its impressive structure is located on Elm Avenue.
Clyde Younger
Watertown Resident
Send letters to watertownmanews@gmail.com
Thank you Clyde for your excellennt response. As you know I am a third generation resident and historian. I would like someone to please explain why we need a new logo.
Adding to my comment: I believe that a Town logo would be seen more often than our Town seal. Hence, it is very important that the logo represent our community and history well. As Clyde pointed out in his example of our Town’s history, please keep in mind that when people think of the history in MA, they often think of Concord and Sudbury. Our history is just as important. I speak as an historian and artist.
I must admit that I to agree that the proposed logo is insipid and says nothing profound about Watertown.
Lexington and Concord may have had the battle, but our town treasurer, Joseph Coolidge, put down his plow and went off to Lexington and Concord and died there. The place where I live is named after him and he is buried in the cemetery at the corner of Mt. Auburn and Arlington.
We were the first inland settlement. Certainly a recognition of the Charles River, our finest natural, asset is appropriate.
I like the inclusion of the native population on the seal. We must not forget them.
“Founded in Peace” is a fine ideal to live up to. A worthy guide post to live our lives.
So, if we must have a logo, I think that we can do better.
Agree completely with Clyde and others who responded. Please don’t change a meaningful. Historic logo.
I agree. I’m not sure why we need a logo any way, and this one conveys nothing about Watertown.
I’m complete agreement with the above.
The proposed logo feels so incomplete. Perhaps adding a cannon
in the center, in recognition of the Watertown Arsenal, would be
something to consider.
Thanks for the recognition regarding our dedication to Watertown history, Clyde. Just a note to say that the Historical Society of Watertown was established in 1888. We purchased the 1772 Edmund Fowle House in 1922 from renowned Watertown architect Charles Brigham.
Thank you, Clyde! Uou are so right.
It is worth noting that Paul Revere printed the first Massachusetts currency at Watertown in 1775. The notes were signed by the provincial Committee at the historic Fowle House in Watertown, that housed the President James Warren and his Council. The committees met there and installed the surviving Council Chamber in his then unfinished house that they occupied in 1775-6. Edmund Fowle had to beg the provincial legislature to reimburse him for his damaged furniture and for burning all his candles and firewood. Not worth a Continental? Very much worth it if his family kept his Revere notes to the present day! Revere’s Sword in Hand Note
“In Defense of American Liberty” would make a good logo – See:
https://coins.nd.edu/colcurrency/currencytext/MA-12-07-75.html