Cleanup at cemetery leads to Revolutionary War hero’s grave

CRANSTON, R.I. (AP) - A gravesite cleanup in Rhode Island has led to the discovery of a Revolutionary War hero’s grave.

The Providence Journal reports that Capt. Jonathan Pitcher, a founding father of the U.S. Navy, is buried in a small Cranston cemetery that for centuries attracted little notice.

The Cranston Historic Cemetery Commission discovered Pitcher’s unmarked grave in the Capt. Phillip Sheldon Lot where members of the original Pawtuxet Rangers are buried.

Pitcher is buried there because he married into the Sheldon family.

A ceremony Sunday honored four Revolutionary War veterans at the site, including Pitcher. Pitcher’s grave has received a new marker.

Present-day Pawtuxet Rangers participated in full regalia.

U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, Secretary of State Nellie M. Gorbea, Cranston Mayor Allan Fung and descendants of Revolutionary War veterans attended.