Lee Historical Society
Cemeteries
Cemeteries, by definition, are a great source for the history of the area in which they reside. Lee is blessed with three that abound with a plethora of stories of their inhabitants. Beautiful Fairmount, with its panoramic view of the Berkshire Hills; St. Mary’s, which neighbors the equally scenic and historical Greenock Country Club*; quaint little South Lee.
Who was Matty Hendy? Well, she has the distinction of being the first person to be buried in the town cemetery, Fairmount. This unfortunate young lady fell from the family wagon, having made it all the way from Cape Cod without incident, and didn’t survive the landing.
Of local legend is the story of an unnamed – probably just as well – local businessman whose remains lay in one of Lee’s cemeteries. It seems he was enjoying himself with his latest paramour when, left alone for a few moments, he found himself entombed when the bed folded up and extinguished him.
If you wish to learn more of the history concerning Lee’s cemeteries and their inhabitants, turn to Page 35 in Florence Consolati’s “See All the People”.
*Check out Page 65 of “See All the People” to learn more.
