It’s long stood as a symbol of our fair city, and now after an extensive renovation effort – thanks to funds allotted by the Community Preservation Act – the Prospect Hill Park tower is back to a state of structural integrity befitting its fabled status.

Residents and city officials gathered on Tuesday to rededicate the monument and herald its new incarnation as a cherished part of our local history.

Built in 1903, the tower stood as a tribute to soldiers from the Civil and Revolutionary wars, and ever since its construction has reminded residents and visitors of our city’s place in history as a place where big things have happened.

Tradition has it that George Washington raised the flag on Prospect Hill on January 1, 1776, and a plaque on the hill commemorates the event. Each New Year’s Day the event is reenacted with great pomp and ceremony, and serves as one of the most popular patriotic occasions in the region.

Limited tours through the interior of the tower will be conducted in October, and full time access is scheduled to commence in the spring of 2017.

It’s a great looking piece of architecture, and stimulates the imaginations of all who take the time to pause in contemplation of what it is intended to represent.

So let’s all take our own moments to stop and take in the sight of such a unique and inspiring piece of our own history.