| Historical Sketches of Charlton The Cemeteries of Charlton by Rev. Anson Titus THE SPURR FUND Our burial yard at Charlton Centre has been priveliged to enjoy the thoughtfulness of one of Charlton's noblest sons. In the early years of the war Thomas Jefferson Spurr, in common with many of our land, joined the army to bear its privations and suffer its hardships that the honor and unity of our nation might be preserved. He was a son of Samuel D. Spurr, who died Nov. 3, 1842, aged 42, and a grandson of Gen. John Spurr, who held a prominent influence in the interests of our town. Young Spurr was, also, a grandson of Dr. Dan Lamb, so long a physician of Charlton. A further account of this young man is found in "Worcester in the War" an excellent book of local reminiscence. The inscription upon the tomb stone is, Thomas Jefferson, only son Samuel D. and Mary A. Spurr, 1st Lieut. 15th Reg. Mass. Vol. Wounded in battle of Antietam, Sept. 17; died at Hagerstown, Sept. 27, 1862, aged 24 years. The remains of Mr. Spurr were secured and are now reposing in the lot of the family. The selectmen of Charlton were notified of the will and its conditions by the brother in law of Mr. Spurr, Senator Geo. F. Hoar. The town accepted the fund, the interest of which has been wisly expended according to the condition of the will. It would, however, add much to the credit of the town to appropriate moneys once in a while to further the same general design of this fund. The following is that portion of the will which refers to this fund: I give and bequeath to the town of Charlton in Massachusetts the sum of five hundred dollars, on condition that the same be invested carefully and that the income thereof shall annually be spent, first in taking care of the lot on the burying ground in the center where the body of my father, (Samuel D. Spurr) was buried, so that the grass, trees, stones, and fence be kept in good repair and condition; second, if there is any surplus, that the same shall be used for making improvements and for ornamenting the burying grounds; third, that any surplus remaining shall be used for improving and ornamenting the common, so called, in the center of said town. |