South Burying Place
A historic burial ground in Concord, MA, featuring ancient slate gravestones and a peaceful atmosphere. A tangible link to early American settlers and...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
South Burying Place
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic burial ground in Concord, MA, featuring ancient slate gravestones and a peaceful atmosphere. A tangible link to early American settlers and literary figures.
"One of the most impressive cemeteries I've visited, both historically significant and beautiful."
🚶♀️ Walk Softly
Tread lightly and speak softly to honor the resting place. It's a historic site, not a playground.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but avoid intrusive shots. Focus on the atmosphere and historical details.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Slate Gravestones
Throughout the cemetery
Marvel at the ancient, weathered slate headstones, some dating back to the late 17th century. Each tells a story of Concord's earliest settlers.
Central Maple Tree
Center of the cemetery
A magnificent, enormous maple tree stands as a natural centerpiece, offering shade and a picturesque focal point.
Notable Burials
Various sections
Pay respects to individuals who shaped American history and literature, including prominent figures from Concord's past.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Best Time for Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk Softly
Tread lightly and speak softly to honor the resting place. It's a historic site, not a playground.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but avoid intrusive shots. Focus on the atmosphere and historical details.
📚 Research Ahead
Learn about notable figures buried here to enhance your visit. Many authors are interred here.
📍 Near Visitor Center
Conveniently located near the Visitors Center, making it easy to combine with other Concord attractions.
Unusual tourist advice
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Softly
Tread lightly and speak softly to honor the resting place. It's a historic site, not a playground.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but avoid intrusive shots. Focus on the atmosphere and historical details.
📚 Research Ahead
Learn about notable figures buried here to enhance your visit. Many authors are interred here.
📍 Near Visitor Center
Conveniently located near the Visitors Center, making it easy to combine with other Concord attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the South Burying Place for its historical significance and well-maintained, peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the beauty of the old slate gravestones and the impressive central maple tree. While generally a positive experience, some note the uneven terrain can be a minor challenge.
"Well kept grounds and slatw gravestones near Visitors Center in Concord."
A R Young
"I absolutely love this small burial ground. It's pretty well preserved. Very impressive grave stones of the early settlers from the area. Definitely worth visiting."
Leanne d'Entremont
"One of the most impressive cemeteries I've visited in my life, both historically significant and beautiful."
Jonathan Roth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South Burying Place is centrally located in Concord, Massachusetts, making it easily accessible. It's situated near the Visitors Center, so you can often park in the town center and walk. If driving, look for public parking areas in downtown Concord.
Yes, there are public parking lots available in the downtown Concord area, which is a short walk from the cemetery.
Absolutely! Concord is a popular day trip from Boston, and the South Burying Place is a key historical site to visit during your excursion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the South Burying Place is a public cemetery and is free to visit.
As a public cemetery, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's a place for quiet contemplation, so there are no strict opening or closing times like a museum.
While official guided tours might be limited, local historical societies or the Visitors Center may offer information or occasional guided walks. It's best to check with the Concord Visitors Center for current offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Established shortly after Concord's founding in 1635, it's one of the town's earliest cemeteries. It holds the graves of many of Concord's founding settlers and notable historical figures.
You'll find a well-maintained cemetery with hundreds of historic slate gravestones, many dating back to the late 17th and 18th centuries. A large maple tree is a prominent feature.
Yes, the cemetery is the final resting place for many historically significant individuals, including authors and figures from the American Revolution.
The grounds are generally flat, but gravestones and uneven terrain can present challenges. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and proceed with caution.
Take your time to wander through the grounds, read the inscriptions on the gravestones, and appreciate the historical context. It's a place for quiet reflection.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful. Avoid disturbing the grounds or other visitors. Focus on capturing the historical atmosphere.
The old slate gravestones, especially when bathed in soft morning or afternoon light, make for compelling photographs. The central maple tree also offers a picturesque backdrop.
While there are no explicit bans, remember it's a place of burial. Avoid drone photography or anything that could be seen as disrespectful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit concise and engaging. Perhaps focus on finding a specific notable grave or the large central maple tree. Bringing a small notebook for them to sketch a gravestone or write down interesting facts can add an interactive element. Ensure they wear comfortable shoes for walking on potentially uneven ground. The peaceful atmosphere can be a good contrast to more active tourist sites, offering a moment of quiet reflection for the whole family.
📚 History Buffs & Literary Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the different sections and read the inscriptions. The historic slate gravestones themselves are artifacts, offering insights into the craftsmanship and symbolism of past eras. Consider visiting the nearby Concord Museum or the homes of authors like Emerson and Thoreau to further contextualize the lives of those interred here. The cemetery provides a quiet, contemplative space to connect with the legacy of these historical giants.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Concord's Past
Visitors can expect to see a remarkable collection of historic slate gravestones, many of which are weathered and worn by centuries of exposure. These stones, often intricately carved with epitaphs and symbols, offer a unique window into the artistic and cultural practices of the time. The cemetery's central location within Concord makes it a readily accessible site for those interested in American history, literature, and colonial heritage. It's a place where the past feels remarkably present, inviting contemplation and reflection on the lives of those who came before.
Beyond its historical importance, the South Burying Place is also noted for its natural beauty. A magnificent, enormous maple tree stands as a striking centerpiece, providing shade and a picturesque focal point amidst the rows of gravestones. This blend of historical gravitas and natural serenity creates a uniquely peaceful atmosphere, making it a poignant and memorable destination for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Concord's storied past.
Navigating the Historic Grounds
When visiting, it's crucial to remember that this is a place of rest. Respectful behavior is paramount. This means keeping voices low, refraining from touching or leaning on gravestones, and avoiding any actions that could disturb the solemnity of the site. Photography is permitted, but should be done with discretion, focusing on capturing the historical ambiance rather than intrusive close-ups. The peaceful nature of the cemetery is one of its most cherished qualities, and visitors play a vital role in preserving it.
For those interested in the lives of the individuals interred here, a bit of pre-visit research can greatly enhance the experience. Many of Concord's most prominent historical figures and literary giants are buried within its confines. Checking with the local Visitors Center for any available maps or information about notable graves can add a layer of depth to your exploration, turning a simple walk through a cemetery into an engaging historical journey.
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