Summer is the time to see John Porter Bowman turned into stone. (In winter, a specially-built metal case protects the sculpted man from weather damage.)On a drive throught Cuttingsville, Vermont, a sight worth a stop is a memorial of Bowman with his top hat and coat on his arm. He holds a key over his heart with one hand and a wreath in the other.
Bowman had his likeness carved to pay tribute to his late wife and young daughters. The statue of Bowman was designed by New York City sculptor Giovanni Turini (who signed his work near Bowman's boot.)
The imposing mausoleum stands in Laurel Glen Cemetery and was completed in 1881.
Laurel Hall, right across the road (within sight of the memorial) was once Bowman's home. More recently, it was a used bookstore; at present, it is a private home.Bowman owned a tannery and made his fortune selling leather goods to the government during the Civil War. He died in 1891 and is also interred within the crypt where his likeness stands watch.
Travelers on Route 103 must look closely to find the statue. It's advised to pull over and park off the shoulder.
The interior can be seen (it is elaborate) but is gated and locked. Bowman earmarked funds to maintain the mausoleum and grounds in perpetuity.
Rose/floral tribute, The Flower Box, Wethersfield, Connecticut.
