Eagle Feathers #343 – Signs of the Time

By Bob (Monty) Doherty

The “time” was 150 years ago, and the “signs” appeared shortly after. America was in the last year of the Civil War, 1864-1865. The war would claim over 600,000 American lives and wound a million more before it ended. Every city and town would be affected in one way or another. Somerville was no different. The Somerville militia’s sacrifice would be 98 killed and 250 wounded out of 1,485, or almost one quarter. Hundreds more served in other military branches. The Somerville Avenue 1863 Civil War Memorial to her fallen troops is said to be the first in the nation. This was a spark for the small town’s appreciation later on.

It’s been an interesting year in politics and social discourse, to say the least. The City of Somerville is certainly one classic example of strong, good-hearted people having the capacity to set aside fundamental ideological differences for the sake of appreciation of the community.

Events such as the city Christmas Tree lighting, taking place this Thursday, symbolically serve as a reminder that we are indeed a cohesive community, with our common hopes, fears, ambitions, and objectives.

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At a recent gathering, I ran into the poet John Pijewski. Pijewski, a member of the New England Poetry Club. He told me about his new book of poetry coming out from the Finishing Line Press in January 2026. It sounded gripping and harrowing, so I decided to ask him for an interview, which he generously agreed to. The poet writes:

My name is Ava Amara. I am a sophomore Entrepreneurship major and Construction Management minor at Endicott College. I am on the lacrosse team, as well. While I am not pursuing writing as a career, I have a passion for poetry. I find it to be an impactful way to express my thoughts and emotions.

The Davis Square Merchants Association is excited to announce a brand-new community celebration for the 2025 holiday season: the Davis Square Holidate, taking place Saturday, December 6, as an all-day, neighborhood event. The event will begin at 8 a.m.

By Alyssa Buford

On November 19, the Somerville Finance Committee hosted a meeting via Zoom. The committee reviewed various mayoral, municipal, and citizen funding requests for property acquisition, staffing charges, interest payments, and resource loans.

Detour will be in place 24 hours a day to facilitate construction of raised crossing

Beginning this upcoming Monday, December 1, city contractors plan to construct a raised crossing to improve safety at the intersection of Somerville Avenue and Central Street.