Lowell Residents Dedicated Garden of Peace at Fort Hill

The new memorial at Fort Hill Park serves as a dedicated sanctuary for families to reflect on victims of homicide.

Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Civic

Lowell Residents Dedicated Garden of Peace at Fort Hill

About 100 people gathered at Fort Hill Park to dedicate a new Garden of Peace intended to memorialize homicide victims. The site, featuring a plaque inscribed with "We Remember Them," serves as a place of reflection for local families.

Why it matters

The garden provides a sanctuary for families to grieve and process loss while ensuring that those taken by violence are not forgotten by the community. It formalizes a space for remembrance for individuals affected by homicide, such as the victims of cases dating back to 1983.

The project was officially approved by the Lowell City Council on August 9, 2022. While the idea originated decades ago, planning intensified following a proposal by Peggy Hassett to the City Manager's Office.

The players

Peggy Hassett

She initiated the development of the memorial by proposing the garden concept to the City Manager's Office.

Mark LeBlanc

He serves as the Lowell Police Deputy Superintendent and attended the formal dedication ceremony.

The details

The site was selected after city staff conducted a search at Fort Hill Park, eventually leading to a ceremony where families unveiled a central commemorative plaque. The space is intended to house future memorial bricks engraved with the names of those lost to homicide.

August 9, 2022: The Lowell City Council approved the peace garden project.
September 25, 2026: The dedication ceremony was held at the park.

Industry Dynamics

The establishment of this memorial reflects a growing municipal focus on creating dedicated public spaces for community healing and trauma processing. By formalizing these sites, city governments are increasingly acknowledging the long-term emotional needs of families affected by violent crime.

The Garden of Peace at Fort Hill Park is now open to the public as a permanent site for reflection. Families of victims can look forward to the future placement of personalized memorial bricks at the location.

The takeaway

The dedication of this garden highlights the importance of institutionalizing community support systems for those experiencing grief. Residents seeking to honor lost loved ones can now utilize this designated space for quiet reflection.