Cemeteries are more than final resting places; they serve as historical markers that give us glimpses into the lives, cultures, and traditions of those who came before us. In the United States, some cemeteries date back to the early colonial period and reflect the nation’s history from its earliest days. These burial grounds not only house the remains of founding figures and historical icons but also tell the story of the American struggle and spirit through their gravestones, inscriptions, and landscapes. This article explores seven of the oldest cemeteries in the United States, unearthing the compelling stories and unique features of each site.
List of the Oldest Cemeteries in the US
1. Colonial Cemetery
Situated in the heart of Plymouth, Massachusetts, the Burial Hill Cemetery is regarded as one of the oldest colonial cemeteries in the United States. Plymouth is where the Pilgrims of the Mayflower established one of the first European settlements in what would become the United States, lending the cemetery a deep historical significance.
Burial Hill was initially chosen by the Pilgrims for its elevated position overlooking the harbor. The first interments were likely unmarked graves, as stone markers did not become prevalent until decades later. Visitors to Burial Hill encounter old slate headstones adorned with morbidly beautiful funerary art, including skulls, cherubs, and winged effigies. Each marker reflects the Puritanical views of death and mortality that dominated the settlement.
Historians and genealogists flock to Burial Hill for its ties to the founding Pilgrims, including gravestones and monuments commemorating Myles Standish and other early settlers. Beyond its historical appeal, the cemetery offers breathtaking views and a solemn aura, making it an essential destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike.
2. Granary Burying Ground
Located in downtown Boston, the Granary Burying Ground is one of the most famous cemeteries in the nation due to its rich Revolutionary War-era history. Established in 1660, this cemetery holds the remains of some of America’s most renowned colonial figures, including Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock.
The cemetery’s name originates from a grain storage building that once stood nearby, and its rows of colonial-era graves still captivate those walking along the Freedom Trail today. The Granary Burying Ground’s headstones often feature symbols of mortality and spirituality, such as winged skulls and urns, reflecting the somber but hopeful beliefs of the period.
Thousands of tourists visit annually to pay homage to the political and intellectual leaders interred here. The compact, shaded cemetery provides a quiet reprieve from the bustle of Boston and carries the weight of both political impact and cultural legacy. Each stone tells a story of Boston’s central role in shaping the early identity of the United States.
3. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a world-renowned burial ground in New Orleans, celebrated for its above-ground tombs and its unique ties to Creole culture. Established in 1789, this cemetery has become emblematic of the city’s distinctive history, artistry, and spirituality. Its graves serve as testament to the rich cultural melting pot that New Orleans embodies.
Unlike traditional cemeteries, the famous mausoleum-style tombs were necessitated by the city’s swampy terrain. These tombs often incorporate intricate architectural elements, including wrought iron, religious symbols, and colorful ceramic details. Over time, they have earned the nickname “Cities of the Dead” for their resemblance to miniature urban landscapes.
The cemetery is famously the resting place of Marie Laveau, the legendary “Voodoo Queen” of New Orleans. Her tomb attracts visitors from around the world who come in search of her mystical blessings. Additionally, the cemetery has been featured in numerous films, further cementing its iconic status within American popular culture.
4. Old Burial Ground
Nestled in the quiet town of Kittery Point, Maine, the Old Burial Ground is one of the oldest surviving cemeteries in the country, with grave markers dating back to 1630. Known for its historical connection to early settlers and mariners, this site offers a serene, contemplative glimpse into the colonial era.
The Old Burial Ground provides insight into life along the coast of New England during its earliest days. Many of the buried were seafarers, reflecting Kittery’s deep ties to the maritime industry. The cemetery includes weathered slate markers with intricate carvings that have astonishingly resisted the effects of time.
This burial ground is a treasure trove for historians of early American life, as it contains artifacts and writings that reveal customs and beliefs of the day. Heritage groups frequently preserve and document the cemetery to ensure its legacy remains for future generations. This small but profoundly historical site underscores the tales of struggle and success among the colonists.
5. King’s Chapel Burying Ground
Founded in 1630, this is Boston’s oldest cemetery and is the final resting place for some of the city’s earliest settlers, including John Winthrop, Massachusetts’ first governor. Situated adjacent to King’s Chapel, this cemetery is a window into Puritan values and early colonial life.
Unlike many later cemeteries, King’s Chapel Burying Ground served as a public graveyard, welcoming individuals regardless of wealth or stature. It was also used before the first church building was even constructed, indicating its fundamental role in the settlement’s earliest days. Graves here reflect a mix of modest slabs and more elaborate carved headstones, many of which showcase intricate iconography of death.
This cemetery continues to draw visitors as part of the Freedom Trail, highlighting iconic moments and figures of Boston’s history. Despite the bustling environment that surrounds it, King’s Chapel Burying Ground remains a tranquil testament to the grit and determination of America’s forebears.
6. Burial Ground of Jamestown
Dating back to the establishment of Jamestown in 1607, this burial ground is arguably the oldest European graveyard in North America. As the first permanent English settlement in the New World, Jamestown’s cemetery tells a harrowing tale of survival and hardship in the face of disease, famine, and hostilities.
The graves at Jamestown were originally unmarked, with some only recently uncovered during archaeological efforts in the 20th and 21st centuries. These efforts unearthed the physical remains of early settlers and provided new insights into life during the colony’s turbulent beginning.
For history lovers, a trip to Jamestown is a profound experience. Walking among unearthed burial sites connects visitors to the sacrifices and resilience of the early colonists. The site’s blend of archaeology and history makes it one of the most intellectually enriching cemeteries in the United States.
7. Christ Church Burial Ground
Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia offers a gateway into America’s Revolutionary War history. Dating back to 1695, this historic cemetery holds the graves of Benjamin Franklin and other founding fathers who shaped the formation of the United States.
Known for its simple yet poignant gravestones, Christ Church Burial Ground serves as a reminder of the modesty and humility that characterized many of America’s revolutionaries. Franklin’s famous epitaph—“The Body of B. Franklin, Printer”—is found here, a celebrated piece of history in itself. A scattering of coins on Franklin’s grave has become a popular tradition to symbolize good luck and honor his legacy.
Christ Church’s historical importance transcends its role as a cemetery; it serves as a gathering place for reflection and education about America’s founding principles. School groups, tourists, and history enthusiasts visit to gain a deeper appreciation of the men and women who left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
Conclusion
The oldest cemeteries in the United States are silent witnesses to centuries of history, showcasing the evolution of culture, beliefs, and societal values. From the Puritan simplicity of Burial Hill to the ornate tombs of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, these burial grounds tell stories of perseverance, ingenuity, and loss. They offer visitors a chance to connect with a tangible past and honor those who paved the way for the modern nation we know today.
Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler, these cemeteries provide a profound, humbling reminder that the stories of America’s beginnings lie not only in its monuments and museums but also in the solemn quietude of its graves.
Leave a Reply