Upton Square

Square LocationIntersection of Bridge, Northey, and Winter Street
(click on link for map)

UptonCorporal Thomas A. Upton served in the Massachusetts National Guard during World War I. He was born around 1880 in Pontipoole, Wales. He was a Massachusetts resident for 28 years, worked as a machinist, and lived on 26 Pickman Street. Corporal Upton initially served with Company H, 8th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry from 1898 to 1899. He also served with the 42nd Regiment, United States Infantry during the Philippine Insurrection from 1899 to 1900. Corporal Upton later reenlisted on July 7th, 1916 to Company H, 8th Infantry, Massachusetts National Guard, where he served on Mexican Border. He officially reported for duty on July 25th, 1917 and mustered on August 1st, 1917. He was later assigned to Company B, 104th Infantry, 26th Division. He was promoted to Corporal on August 10th, 1917 and arrived overseas on October 6th, 1917.

Tragically, he was killed in action on July 20th, 1918 near Belleau, France. He was the son of Samuel and Suzan and brother to Henry, Samuel, and Robert of Salem, and John Michael of Peabody. His remains are buried at the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery in Belleau, France.

His square is located at the intersection of Bridge, Northey, and Winter Streets, dedicated in his honor.