1862-12-08 Trustee Committee on Grounds, Alice Fountain Proposal, 1831.033.003-018

Mrs Mary Hemenway by her communication dated Nov 6, 1862 appears to pay to the Corporation of Mount Auburn cemetery six thousand dollars if they will construct a fountain opposite her lot on Thistle path, and convey to her in trust to be forever kept open about 21,095 feet ^{of land} exclusive of water, as seen in a plan of the same drawn by Messrs Shad and Edison. This land is comprised chiefly of a wet bog, and a very steep bank, neither of them convertible to cemetery purposes without a great large outlay for filling ^up and altering their grade. The number of lots which could be constructed in this land would not exceed 35 by Mr Shads estimate, and these would perhaps be the last part of Mount Auburn to come into the market. Supposing them to be all sold in 20 or 25 years at present full prices, they would not bring the accumulated value of $3000. paid at the present time

As to the cost of constructing the fountain, if it is found on experiment that we can afford to waste the water after it is used

the fountain can be made for $1500. But if the water is saved and returned to the well, the whole cost for including laid pipes and a water tight basin would not exceed $3500. according to the items furnished by Mr Shads estimate

The land which is by covenant to be kept open ^forever, is the smallest amount which would allow the fountain to be seen to any advantage. Indeed if half as much more land were added, it would increase the beauty of Mount Auburn, and add to the desirableness of the surrounding lots which will be prepared for sale.

The works being already made for running two fountains, a third fountain can be carried on with the same works, for an additional expense in coal, labor and repairs not probably exceeding $100. per annum

for this Committee

Jacob Bibelow Chairman

Report of Com^ee on Grounds on accepting the proposition of Mrs Mary Hemenway for making a fountain near Snowdrop Path

Dec^r 8, 1862

Accession # 1831.033.018