Cumberland Monastery

This park was the home of the Monastery of Our Lady of the Valley, occupied by the monks of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, commonly known as Trappists. The monastery building now houses administration, meeting rooms and the Cumberland Public Library.

Of value to ROAD TRIPPERS who appreciate HISTORY: this is the site of the first VETERAN's MEMORIAL in the US. Located on one of the many trails of the grounds, NINE MEN'S MISERY is the burial place of nine colonists that were tortured to death by the Narragansetts during King Philips War. Originally marked by a cairn in 1676, it was secured by a more permanent cemented cairn in 1928 by the Trappist monks who owned this property after several attempted desecrations by researchers and locals. This cairn still stands, along with a plaque. Some believe these grounds are HAUNTED but I personally, in all my 40 years of visits, have only had one spooky minor event (and that was in the library bathroom!) so please do not be afraid to visit this most important historical memorial.

WALKING: there are many trails on the grounds, fit for WALKERS and JOGGERS. One path leads to Nine Mens Misery, another to a quarry with a view of Providence in the distance. Trails meander past a pond, swamp, a huge water tank, old stone walls and fields. GEOCACHING allowed. Often very busy, it is a safe place to walk alone or with family. This is a DOG FRIENDLY park however many locals do not leash their pets and that can be a problem.

PLAYGROUND: as of 2020 there are plans to renovate the playground. It needs a face lift. It has been a good place for children to play and offered a swing for children who might need assistance. There is no path for wheelchairs to the play equipment and I hope this will be rectified with the renovation. Mulch and grass are covering the play area as well as sand in the slide and jungle gym area.

PICNIC tables are available. NO GRILLS or fires allowed.

RESTROOMS are located in the library and are not open after library hours.

NO OVERNIGHT PARKING. NO CAMPING.