By Theresa Knapp 

The tomb of Jacob Miller (1732-1812) in South Cemetery, or “Hoppin’ River Cemetery,” may be repaired this summer. 

In 2022, a large hole was discovered behind the brick tomb’s front façade which was then falling forward. The town installed a temporary plywood brace to prevent further damage that some people suspect was caused by heavy traffic vibrations on Washington Street which sits just feet away. 

The town has contracted a company to restore and preserve several gravestones in town. That company will restore the Miller Tomb once a structural engineer provides guidance on the repair, expected to happen this summer. 

In 2023, Community Preservation Act funds, in the amount of $25,000, were approved for the project. In 2022, $500,000 in CPA funds were approved for the preservation of the five historic cemeteries owned by the town. 

According to www.millerhillfarm.com, “Jacob fought as an officer in the army of the Revolution, in the Battle of Concord April 19th, 1775. He is listed as ‘Second Major, Jacob Miller of Holliston.’” 

The Miller farmhouse still stands on Miller Hill on Gorwin Drive.