Old Burying Ground, Stoneham, MA

Old Burying Ground, Stoneham, Massachusetts


On a recent walk to escape the confines of the home amidst the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, I set out specifically to walk by this cemetery. I've been disappointed repeatedly that I'm not allowed to enter the grounds and get a closer look, however clearly this is to protect these stones, which largely are in excellent condition. Apparently some of them are quite ornate. This site is on the National Historic Register, hopefully I'll catch it one of these days when it is open. If so, I'll be sure to update this with the close up shots of some headstones.



The Old Burying ground was said to be once in the town center of Stoneham, with a meetinghouse nearby. However today most of the construction around it is likely somewhat contemporary and the current town center is a few blocks away. Stoneham's website lists the cemetery as having veterans from 4 military conflicts, as well as other prominent historical figures including abolitionists. The "Find A Grave," page for this burial site mentions that fourteen of the Revolutionary War soldiers buried here are listed as members of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. The page also mentions open houses have been held, as well as reenactments. This makes me hopeful that one day I can stroll its grounds.


Text and photographs by George Parks
Sources are embedded in links


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