Save Mattos Field
SAVE MATTOS FIELD
Dear Friends of Mattos Field, all citizens that enjoy Open Green Spaces, and for
the honor of Pvt. Joseph S. Mattos Jr.: WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!!!
Our Mattos Field is in jeopardy of being taken. This small parcel of land represents so much more than just a field. The land was dedicated by the Portuguese Community of Gloucester in 1935 in honor of Pvt. Joseph S. Mattos, Jr. who, at the age of 19 years old paid the ultimate sacrifice in WW1. It has remained the Joseph S. Mattos, Jr. Playground and Recreation area for the past 85 years. It sits in the heart of Gloucester's densely populated, Portuguese Hill neighborhood. The children, families, neighbors and our entire community all depend on this open space. It represents outdoor athletics, play and gatherings of all kinds throughout the year. It is our hope to help raise the funds needed as the road ahead is a legal one. We would greatly appreciate your help. Your generous donation would help to preserve and protect this parcel of land for generations to come. Let's help preserve the legacy of Pvt. Joseph S. Mattos, Jr.! Thank you so much!
The Light Up Mattos Committee and our cities Community Preservation Act grant money and private donations payed for the rehabilitation of this important open space. Over $280.000 was raised for Mattos Field.
Mattos Field is the only open space accessible by children and adults in this densely populated neighborhood historically known Portagee hill.
Mattos Field was dedicated to Pvt. Joseph S. Mattos Jr. October 5, 1918.
A Rededication to Pvt. Mattos was held on October 5, 2018 for his 100th. Anniversary of his sacrifice to our country.
Joseph S. Mattos Jr. was born in Gloucester MA October 4, 1899 son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph S. Mattos.
Joseph entered the military service at the age of 16 with his mothers blessing.
He was sent to France on August 13, 1917 as a member of Battery A, 5th. U.S. Field Artillery, Army.
Private Mattos was killed in action on October 5, 1918 the day after his 19th. birthday.
Mattos Playground/ Recreation area was dedicated in 1935 to Pvt. Mattos Jr.'s memory and his sacrifice to our country.
Reginald Santos Pvt. Joseph S. Mattos Jr.'s nephew
