Warren in Bristol County, Rhode Island — The American Northeast (New England)
Massasoit Park Sacred Circle Monument
Photographed By David Weed
1. Massasoit Park Sacred Circle Monument
In October of 2000 the Massasoit Park Revitalization Committee rehabilitated and re-dedicated this park for the community of Warren as a recreational space for the Historic Waterfront District.
In the “Sacred Circle,” East, West, North and South represent the blessings that follow the sun’s path, enabling the cycle of life. The boulders were chosen and designed by Native American Rose Lewis. Strong Woman and Moondancer explained the symbols in words.
[Captions:]
Whale boulder
"We were created by one of the greatest forces known to man: water. West is the direction of water, it cleanses our bodies, our minds, and our hearts. Water has no boundaries. Live each and every day."
Wolf boulder
"Our ancestors believed that the stones are the bones of the earth. Their strength endures forever. Therefore, the north stone represents the survival and the strength of the First People."
Turtle boulder
"The sun rises in the East and gives us light. That is why the indigenous people here call themselves 'People of the First Light.' East symbolizes wisdom, love, peace and harmony. Let us walk on balance."
Bear boulder
"The lessonof the south is to learn. The symbol of the south is fire. The fire shows us the path of truth and knowledge to light up our hearts and make changes for the better.
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The historical painting scene below depict a visit to Massasoit Dusamequin's Pokanoket village in October by Quahog Nipmuc Great Sachem, Nadawahunt and his family.
Celebrating the arrival of their Massasoit's guests, the villagers will be treated to many gifts of food the visitors bring, which will be shared with the community.
In October 1907, members of the Massasoit Monument Association gathered here for the dedication of a monument honoring the Pokenoket Massasoit Dusamequin. They placed a boulder at the site, known as Massasoit Spring, across the street on the south side of Baker Street.
Erected 2021 by Town of Warren, Rhode Island.
Topics. This historical marker and monument is listed in these topic lists: Churches & Religion • Native Americans • Parks & Recreational Areas • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical month for this entry is October 2000.
Location. 41° 43.841′ N, 71° 17.12′ W. Marker is in Warren, Rhode Island, in Bristol County. Marker is at the intersection of Baker Street and Water Street, on the right when traveling west on Baker Street
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Oyster Industry (here, next to this marker); The Middle Passage (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); The First Methodist Church (about 500 feet away); Veterans Memorial (about 600 feet away); Warren Honor Roll (about 600 feet away); The Baptist Church in Warren (about 700 feet away); Baptist Church in Warren, R.I. (about 700 feet away); The Warren Armory (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Warren.
Additional keywords. Massasoit, Pokanoket Tribe
Credits. This page was last revised on May 10, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 17, 2021, by David Weed of Warren, Rhode Island. This page has been viewed 475 times since then and 22 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on December 17, 2021, by David Weed of Warren, Rhode Island. 2. submitted on May 9, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. A clearer photo of the marker. • Can you help?
