Dedication and blessing of the new Armenian Heritage Monument in Whitinsville, Massachusetts

November 20, 2024 Victoria Atamian Waterman Community News, Diaspora 1
Clergy and the community gathered for the blessing and dedication of the Armenian Heritage Monument in Whitinsville, MA (Photo: Ken Martin)

On November 2, 2024, the Whitinsville community gathered alongside dignitaries, elected officials and clergy to celebrate the dedication and blessing of the Armenian Heritage Monument just 18 months after its groundbreaking. His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy of the United States, presided over the ceremony, marking a significant moment in the region’s history.

This project began as a simple idea: to create a lasting tribute where the community could gather each Memorial Day to honor, remember and pray for the souls of Armenian immigrants who survived the Armenian Genocide and were welcomed in Whitinsville to rebuild their lives. With the support of the town of Northbridge, which donated a parcel of land at Pine Grove Cemetery, the vision became a reality. Pine Grove Cemetery is the final resting place for many Armenian immigrants who were integral to Whitinsville’s rich history.

H.E. Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian blessing the Armenian Heritage Monument alongside Rev. Fr. Mikael Der Kosrofian of the Soorp Asdvadzadzin Church in Whitinsville, MA (Photo: Ken Martin)

During the ceremony, local leaders acknowledged the enduring contributions of the Armenian community. Many Armenians began working at Whitin Machine Works as early as the 1880s, helping to build a vibrant local economy. State Senator Ryan Fattman and State Representative David Muradian presented a proclamation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Selectman Charlie Ampagoomian, Jr. also proclaimed November 2 as Armenian Heritage Monument Day, celebrating the legacy of the community.

“We are blessed to share a vision with community supporters and leaders for this monument,” remarked Rev. Fr. Mikael Der Kosrofian of Soorp Asdvadzadzin Armenian Apostolic Church. “It stands as a sacred and solemn place for Armenians in Whitinsville and the Blackstone Valley.”

His Holiness Catholicos Aram I at the Armenian Heritage Monument during his visit to Whitinsville, MA in October (Holy See of Cilicia)

The event was further honored on October 9, 2024 with the presence of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I as part of his pontifical visit to the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America. His Holiness praised the monument as a testament to honoring the past, celebrating the present and educating future generations about the enduring legacy of Armenians in Whitinsville and the Blackstone Valley.

The Armenian Heritage Monument, Whitinsville, MA (Photo: Ken Martin)

Since the project’s inception, a dedicated committee has worked tirelessly to raise $125,000 by December 31, 2024. Committee members are now asking for help in reaching out to families who may have moved away from the area, encouraging them to participate in this final opportunity to honor their loved ones.

For more information on how to support this meaningful initiative, visit https://armenianchurchofwhit.org/heritage-monument/. 

Victoria Atamian Waterman

Victoria Atamian Waterman

Victoria Atamian Waterman is a writer born in Rhode Island. Growing up in an immigrant, bilingual, multi-generational home with survivors of the Armenian Genocide has shaped the storyteller she has become. She is a trustee of Soorp Asdvadzadzin Armenian Apostolic Church and chair of the Armenian Heritage Monument in Whitinsville, MA. She is the author of "Who She Left Behind."

1 Comment

  1. The Blackstone Valley and the Blackstone River are synonymous with the Industrial Revolution. The mills along that river provided work for the immigrants all the way down to Slater Mill in Pawtucket, RI. Congratulations on the construction of this masterpiece.

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