Brian Yates, former Newton City Councilor and the Founder, Past President, and guiding spirit of the Friends of Hemlock Gorge, passed away on March 15, 2019. A granite memorial to Brian has now been placed in Hemlock Gorge close to the Stone Building and the Circular Dam.

The dedication took place on the evening of August 6 before our annual summer picnic, which he always hosted. Nearly 60 people attended, including some of his closest friends and colleagues. Remembrances were given by Rep. Ruth Balser, Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, Amy Mah Sangiolo, Bob Burke, and Rena Getz. Vaunita Schnell and Rob MacArthur recounted the history of the saving of the Stone Building from dereliction and the long list of accomplishments of the Friends. Finally, three of Brian’s cousins attended and spoke. Pictures of the dedication will be posted soon.

On August 14 the Newton Tab published an article about the dedication of Brian’s memorial. It’s on the front page of the second section of the printed version. Here is the link to the online version.

Music for the picnic was provided courtesy of Karen Osborn, who also landscaped the Stone Building for the event. Brian loved our picnics. Rescuing the Stone Building was a key project in the founding of the Friends.

To read Brian’s History of the Founding of The Friends of Hemlock Gorge, click here.