Because we just celebrated Veteran’s Day, we will take a break from the history of industry in Wareham to look at the Town Green, or Center Park. Did you know that that the veteran's monument in the park is more than 100 years old? Over the years, citizens of Wareham have served in the military including the French and Indian War, the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and The Civil War. More history about Wareham’s role these wars will appear at a later date.

In 1902, a special committee was formed to work with the veterans in town who had raised $800 towards the cost of a monument to honor those who served. In 1904, a vote was passed “to erect a Soldiers and Sailors Monument at Center Park and money be raised by borrowing 5000 dollars for payment of same.” An additional $500 was needed and appropriated by Town Meeting. Center Park then became the location for Memorial Day parades and speeches. In 1906, a vote was passed to purchase and install a flag staff and flag. Two Civil War cannons, each weighing between seven and eight tons, were placed at the foot of the monument. A pyramid of 35 round cannon balls was placed on the east side in front of the cannons. The monument stands today as the focal point of the Town Green.