Edward Bangs (b. ca 1591; d. 1677-78) Memorial Bench in Plymouth, Mass.

I was checking out the renovation to Stephens Field in Plymouth this weekend when I came across the Edward Bangs Memorial Bench. I had no idea it existed and was amazed it survives given the recent massive $5 million overhaul to the park. The bench could use a power wash, but it’s in a very pretty spot by a large weeping willow tree overlooking a small duck pond with Plymouth Bay beyond. It is set away from the busier areas of the park that include a playground, tennis/pickle ball courts, basketball court, baseball field, and a boat launch. It would be a lovely spot for contemplation although it isn’t the most comfortable of seating! There are even nesting Ospreys at the park.

Edward Bangs is my 10th great-grandfather. He was born in England about 1591 and came to Plymouth in 1623 on the ship Anne. He lived in Plymouth for over 20 years before moving to Eastham on Cape Cod where he was one of the first settlers. He was an innkeeper, a trade his son Jonathan continued. Edward died between 1677 and 1678 at Eastham. 

Edward married, first, Lydia Hicks, and second Rebecca whose maiden name is unknown. I descend from three of Edward and Rebecca’s children: Jonathan, Sarah and Rebecca. I wrote a sketch with more details about Edward some years ago which can be seen here.

An older undated clipping from the Old Colony Memorial newspaper written by Maggie Mills on the history of Stephens Field provides information on the origin of the bench. “In 1930, the decendants [sic] of Edward Bangs met in a small section at the south-westerly section of Stephens Field near a springfed duck pond to dedicate a granite stone bench in memory of their ancestor, who came over in 1623 in the Anne  to settle in Plymouth and was allotted a grant in a special area off Sandwich Street, now included in Stephens Field.” The bench has survived at this ocean-front park for 94 years! 

I wrote a sketch with more details about Edward some years ago which can be seen here.

One of my favorite aspects of genealogical research is pinpointing where my ancestors’ homes were located, and Edward Bangs certainly had a spectacular spot! It is just over half a mile south from Burial Hill and the location of the meeting house, so a fairly quick walk to church for Edward and his large family.