St. Mary's Bank recently presented a check for $3,000 to the Friends of the Valley Cemetery. This donation marks the final installment of the $15,000 the credit union pledged to the organization three years ago to help with the restoration of the historical Valley Cemetery.

Phase one of the ten-year, ten phase project was completed in 2006 and included restoration of the fence along Auburn Street. St. Mary’s most recent payment will help begin phase two which will include the restoration of the fencing along Valley Street. The fencing will be removed, restored and then replaced in the spring. “St. Mary's is pleased to be a part of this historical project,” said President and CEO Ronald Rioux. “We take great pride in this city, and we applaud the Friends of the Valley Cemetery's undertaking in bringing the Valley Cemetery back to its original beauty. It not only honors Manchester's past, but brings enjoyment to the future.”

In partnership with the City of Manchester, the Friends of the Valley Cemetery set a goal to raise money for its $5.0 million capital campaign to revitalize the Valley Cemetery. Built in 1840 on 19 acres of rolling hills, the land was designed to draw residents in to the heart of the city to enjoy the park-like cemetery. The Friends of the Valley Cemetery plans to return to the original concept.

“The Friends of the Valley Cemetery thanks St. Mary's Bank for their support during these first crucial years of our plan to rejuvenate this historical landmark,” said John Wood, Chairman of the Board. “The help and interest of key businesses like St. Mary's are what make it possible for Manchester to remain a beautiful, vibrant city. We look forward to continuing the next phase of this project.” For more information or to contribute funds to this effort, visit The Friends of the Valley Cemetery Web site at www.valley-cemetery.com.