UPDATE: In a remarkable effort to preserve local history, Eagle Scout and Swampscott High School student Adrian LaPorte is revitalizing a historic cannon at the Swampscott Cemetery. This project, aimed at honoring the twelve residents who perished during World War I, is set to be completed by February 2024.
LaPorte’s initiative comes as he collaborates with the Swampscott Conservancy and the Department of Public Works, led by Gino Cresta. He discovered the cannon in dire need of restoration and seized the opportunity to make it his Eagle Scout project. “The main goal of the project is to commemorate the residents of Swampscott who perished in the First World War. It’s a way to give back,” LaPorte stated.
The cannon, known as a German field gun, has stood neglected on the veterans plot for over a decade. LaPorte is applying a fresh coat of paint and replacing its wheels, which are being custom-made by a vendor in Ohio. The project’s labor-intensive nature has required LaPorte to strip the old paint manually, showcasing his dedication to this historical preservation effort.
In addition to the physical restoration, LaPorte is preparing to install a plaque detailing the cannon’s history and honoring the soldiers it represents. The local Swampscott Rotary has pledged to support the plaque’s costs, underscoring community involvement in this meaningful project.
LaPorte expressed his passion for volunteering and the importance of connecting with local organizations to highlight history. “People forget about history, especially with World War I,” he remarked. “I think it’s a forgotten war… I just wanted to share their stories.”
This restoration project not only represents LaPorte’s commitment to honoring fallen heroes but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by local residents during the war. As he approaches the project’s completion, LaPorte hopes to inspire others in Swampscott to engage with their community’s history.
Stay tuned for further updates as LaPorte aims to finish this significant project within the next month and a half, just in time for his 18th birthday.
