Cumberland, Rhode Island, is embarking on a significant initiative to safeguard its historic stone walls, recognizing their profound cultural and ecological value. The town's proactive approach, facilitated by a $10,500 grant, aims to create a comprehensive inventory of these structures, a crucial step in their preservation. This project, as detailed in the article, is a response to the growing concern over the potential loss of these ancient landmarks due to development pressures.
The town's commitment to preserving stone walls is a testament to their importance in New England's history and identity. Stone walls, as described by Robert Thorson, an Earth Science professor and advocate, are not just physical barriers but also reveal geological and historical insights. They provide habitat for plants and animals and played a strategic role in military defense during the American Revolution. The walls, dating back to the mid-18th century, mark agricultural fields, roads, cemeteries, and animal enclosures, making them integral to Cumberland's rural landscape.
The inventory process, as outlined, involves a detailed classification of stone walls based on structure, construction technique, materials, condition, estimated age, historic use, degree of threat, and integrity. This classification will enable the town to identify patterns and trends in land use and development, providing valuable insights into Cumberland's historical context. The project's ultimate goal is to create a stone wall overlay on the town's GIS portal and establish an eligibility list for a Historic Stone Wall Preservation Program, potentially offering tax credits to property owners.
Amelia Morton, Cumberland's planning director, expresses enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the town's excitement and anticipation for the results. The initiative is a collaborative effort, funded by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Department of the Interior. The town's proactive approach to preserving stone walls is a commendable step, ensuring that these historical landmarks continue to enrich Cumberland's identity and contribute to its cultural heritage.
