The early 1960’s heralded a time of great demolition and restructuring in the heart of Fall River. The Quequechan river was filled in in some places, redirected and channeled in other places to make route 195 a possibility.  Down came the wonderful old city hall with its clock tower and fabulous golden eagle perched at the very top. Down came many other brick and granite and mortar buildings nearby. At the time it seemed like progress, in retrospect, many today rue the day when the grand old edifices came down and the new government center, which some claim was designed in the “Brutalist” style went up with route 195 passing directly beneath it.  The golden eagle was saved, as was the magnificent paneling inside and two of the tall granite columns on the front facade.  The eagle is on display at government center and the Second Street Irregulars were treated to a fascinating tale by Chris Donovan  about the day the eagle came down during a stop the Second Street Irregulars made to meet the mayor last week.

(video by Chris Striker Bound)

(Eagle looking very small atop the old City Hall)