SAUGUS — In the Revolutionary War Cemetery, on Central Street in Saugus, is the burial ground of Parson Joseph Roby.
Roby was a leader, both religiously and patriotically, wielding his bible and his musket in the pulpit, earning him the nickname “Fightin’ Parson.”
Born in Boston in 1724 and educated at Harvard, Roby became a minister of the Lynn Third Parish in 1750. Roby ministered, married couples, raised his family, and became a respected voice in both religious and civic life. For over 50 years, he guided his congregation not only in worship by also through the American Revolution.
In 1775, at the ringing of the alarm on April 19, the day of the battles of Lexington and Concord, Roby carved himself into Saugus history forever. He met with 62 men from the Third Parish at Newhall’s tavern before proceeding to Lexington, where they fought for the country’s freedom. It was after this fight that Roby earned a position on the newly created Committee of Safety, according to the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Roby died in 1803 at the age of 78, having served 51 years as minister. His legacy is remembered through the Saugus chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the now-closed Roby School.
In a time of revolution, Roby stood firm in his convictions, both spiritual and political, leaving his mark on the Town of Saugus.
