The Connection Between a Squash Patch, a Statue, and Community Engagement

In 1901, Thomas S. Peirce, the last surviving heir of Peter H. Peirce, made a lasting gift to Middleborough by including funds to build the Middleborough Public Library in his will. With the assistance of local historian Michael Maddigan, the Friends of the Middleborough Public Library learned of an interesting detail about the library’s location: the building actually sits on land that was once part of Peter Peirce’s property, specifically where Peirce’s squash patch grew.

This transformation from a humble garden patch to a public library symbolizes a shift from private use to a shared resource focused on community engagement. The statue of Thomas Peirce, located on the front lawn of the library, stands as a reminder of the Peirce family’s commitment to the town. Together, the squash patch, the statue, and the library represent a legacy of growth, dedication, and giving back to the community.

In gifting the Peter H. Peirce Homestead to the Friends, Attorney William C. Decas wanted to honor his brother, Attorney George Decas who purchased the property to save it from being sold to a company that planned to build a gas station on the site. For years, George, Bill, and Attorney Daniel Murray operated the law offices of Decas, Murray, and Decas at this location.

Beyond the majestic house, the gift included approximately an acre of land which through the years had little maintenance done to it except for an annual cut back of the grass which would grow waist high each year. Upon acquisition, the Friends saw the grounds to be just as valuable as the house to the community. With the assistance of local contractors, the grounds have been cleared of  many fallen trees, overgrowth and a major cluster of trees that consumed a significant portion of the backyard.  Additionally, the grass has been mowed on a regular basis.

In October, the Board of Directors for Peter H. Peirce Homestead, a d/b/a of the Friends hosted its first major function on the previously overgrown backyard. Bringing together local antique vendors, the event drew over 500 people in search of treasures.  From Middleborough to Minnesota, the visitors to the property had the opportunity to learn about the history of the property and to purchase items ranging from colonial era games and craft kits to books on local history from the homestead’s store.

And, as if a sign from the past, a new squash plant producing several small pumpkins mysteriously flourished in the back yard as the event took place. Often stated as a symbol of growth and potential, the large number of seeds within a single pumpkin can represent immense potential, opportunity, and new possibilities. Attorney Bill Decas’ gift serves as the continuation of the Peirce family’s and the Decas’ commitment to the Town of Middleborough. The Board of Directors of the Peter H. Peirce Homestead look forward to maintaining the legacy of growth, dedication, and giving back to the community.