Sister urges memorial bench at Fort Tabor to honor Arthur C. Burton Jr.

Charlene Burton told the parks board she wants a bench and plaque placed at Fort Tabor to honor her brother, Arthur C. Burton Jr., identifying a specific bench she and he used and saying she returns there to reflect.

"My name is Charlene Burton. I live at 318 Park Street, New Bedford," Burton told the board, describing how she returned to the city after 45 years and found the bench she and her brother shared. She said her brother, who was "married to his fishing pole," often fished from the rocks in front of that bench and that she would like the dedication to be at that spot: "That's where I'm gonna wanna put his bench."

Board members asked a few practical questions about the exact location and the application process. Councilor Roy asked where the bench is located; Burton replied it is on the long walkway up the hill near where boats come in and where the lighthouse is visible. The board’s discussion included remarks of support and personal recollections about the family’s ties to the West End.

The board moved to approve the dedication request and voted in favor. The chair announced the board’s recommendation will be placed on the New Bedford City Council agenda for Sept. 24 at 7 p.m.; staff will contact Burton after the council vote to begin placement.

The item was introduced by the parks and recreation communications staff and was received and placed on file before the applicant’s remarks. The board’s action at the meeting was a recommendation to the City Council; final approval and placement depend on the council vote on Sept. 24.