Quentin Compson III Memorial Plaque on Anderson Bridge
Hidden within the architectural details of Cambridge, Massachusetts, lies a poignant tribute to a life cut short. On the Anderson Memorial Bridge—a structure often mistakenly referred to as the Larz Anderson Bridge—a small brass plaque serves as a lasting commemoration of Quentin Compson III.
Spanning the Charles River, this bridge is more than just a transit point; it houses a subtle piece of history tucked away from the main flow of pedestrian traffic, offering a moment of reflection for those who know where to look.
Key Facts
- Subject: Quentin Compson III (1891–1910).
- Location: Anderson Memorial Bridge, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- Specific Placement: Eastern side (Weld Boathouse side), north of the bridge span's center.
- Physical Description: A brass plaque approximately the size of a single brick.
- Positioning: Located in a small alcove, roughly eighteen inches above the ground.
Locating the Memorial
Finding the plaque requires a keen eye, as it is not prominently displayed. It is embedded in the brick wall on the eastern side of the bridge, specifically the side nearest the Weld Boathouse. To find it, visitors should head just north of the middle of the bridge span, where the plaque sits nestled in a small alcove about eighteen inches from the ground.
The Inscription and History
The plaque is a modest brass marker, comparable in size to a standard brick. While the bridge has undergone various renovations over the years, the essence of the memorial has remained. These renovations have resulted in slight changes to the text over time.
As of 2026, the inscription reads:
"QUENTIN COMPSON III Drowned in the odour of honeysuckle. 1891-1910"
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Memorial Subject | Quentin Compson III |
| Lifespan | 1891–1910 |
| Bridge Name | Anderson Memorial Bridge |
| City/State | Cambridge, Massachusetts |
| Material | Brass |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct name of the bridge where the plaque is located?
The correct name is the Anderson Memorial Bridge, although it is commonly but incorrectly called the Larz Anderson Bridge.
Where exactly on the bridge is the plaque positioned?
It is located on the eastern (Weld Boathouse) side of the bridge, just north of the middle of the span, situated in a small alcove about eighteen inches from the ground.
What does the plaque say?
The current text (as of 2026) reads: "QUENTIN COMPSON III / Drowned in the odour of honeysuckle. / 1891-1910".
Has the text on the plaque ever changed?
Yes, the text has changed slightly as a result of renovations performed on the bridge.
What is the physical size of the memorial?
The memorial is a small brass plaque approximately the size of one brick.