History of Swansea, Massachusetts, 1667-1917; - citizen hylbom blog

THERE
PLACES OF INTEREST
are many points of interest in this town which are
upon the line of the electrics and others which can be easily
visited in that way, but are more remote. Near the Somerset
line is Lee's landing, where shipbuilding was once carried on
to a small extent. Soon we come to "Eben Sherman's Hill,"
from the summit of which there is a fine view of the river and
surrounding country. Abram's Rock is a large boulder north
of the village. It commands a view of Mt. Hope bay with
Mount Hope in the distance. The rock stands as a sentinel
over the village. The oaks at its base whisper of the Indians
who once trod the ground beneath them or rested under their
shade. Philip himself might have rested here when hard
pressed by his enemies. Farther than eye can reach were the
lands of Massasoit. The legend which has been handed down
to us with other folklore is this : Many years ago a poor Indian
who deserted his tribe came to this settlement and made his
abode among the inhabitants. For some time he lived here at
peace, but King Philip, fearing the Indian was treacherous,
resolved to take him prisoner and Abram sought this rock for
a hiding-place. On the west side is a room formed by rocks,
which is still called "Abram's bedroom." He is supposed to
have lived here for some months, when the traits of his
people, perseverance and cunning, proved too much for him,
and he was captured. Then he was given a chance for his life.
The verdict was "death at the stake or three leaps from the
top of the rock to the ground below. " He took advantage of
his chance and the legend states that the first and second leaps
were safely made, but the third proved fatal. It is also said
that a white child was born here in later years.
This is today a simple New England village. There have
been many changes in recent years. It would be hard to find a
locality more pleasant, with its streets bordered by the stately
elms forming arches overhead. A blessing should be daily
breathed upon those who planted them. The beautiful church.
Town hall and library all speak of the generosity of their donor,
the late Hon. Frank S. Stevens. In the church are many
memorials to departed friends. In the Town Hall is the tablet
prepared with so much care by Job Gardner, South Swansea.
This tablet of white marble with gilt letters bears the names of
22 patriots of Swansea who served in the Civil war, one who