Rolling Rock

Fall River, Massachusetts

Before the dawn of history, a glacier left a big roundish rock atop a flat rock pedestal, which is now in a busy intersection in the city of Fall River. It remains here thanks to the Fall River citizens of the early 20th century, who waged a 25 year battle to thwart the forces of traffic safety and keep their beloved rock where it had always been.

At one time the rock really did roll -- or rock back and forth -- and it was said that the local Indians would torture prisoners by rolling the rock onto their arms and legs. By the 1860s, however, the Indians were gone, and the rock was anchored to prevent any further crushing of limbs.

Public domain post card, circa1900.

At the base of the rock is a plaque, now green with age, that records the town's triumph: "ROLLING ROCK," it reads. "Deposited on this spot during the glacial period ages ago. Unique in its tilting feature, it is recognized as of great historic and scientific interest. Preserved by the public in the year 1930."