Mount Olivet Cemetery
A historic sanctuary holding stories of presidents, soldiers, circus performers, and everyday lives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic sanctuary holding stories of presidents, soldiers, circus performers, and everyday lives.
"This historic cemetery is a good place to visit. Francis Scott Key is buried here and many of the headstones are more than a hundred years old."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many sections. :athletic_shoe:
Utilize the Map
A map at the entrance or online grave locator helps find specific plots and historical figures. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Showmen's Rest
Hugo, Oklahoma
A unique section dedicated to circus performers, offering a glimpse into a vibrant, nomadic history.
Francis Scott Key's Grave
Frederick, Maryland
Pay respects to the "Star-Spangled Banner" lyricist in this historically significant burial ground.
Civil War Memorials
Frederick, Maryland
Rows of headstones mark the resting places of Civil War soldiers, a poignant reminder of history.
Gangster Graves
Detroit, Michigan
Discover the final resting places of notable figures from Detroit's past, adding a layer of intrigue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many sections. :athletic_shoe:
Utilize the Map
A map at the entrance or online grave locator helps find specific plots and historical figures. :world_map:
Respectful Conduct
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Be quiet and respectful of ongoing services and memorials. :pray:
Look for Unique Stones
Beyond famous graves, discover intricate headstones and mausoleums that tell individual stories. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many sections. :athletic_shoe:
Utilize the Map
A map at the entrance or online grave locator helps find specific plots and historical figures. :world_map:
Respectful Conduct
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Be quiet and respectful of ongoing services and memorials. :pray:
Look for Unique Stones
Beyond famous graves, discover intricate headstones and mausoleums that tell individual stories. :camerawithflash:
Check for Events
Mount Olivet sometimes hosts events like tree plantings or historical tours. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mount Olivet Cemetery for its rich history, immaculate grounds, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the significance of notable burials like Francis Scott Key and the poignant 'Showmen's Rest' section. While some note areas could use more care, the overall experience is described as a profound walk through history.
"We were amazed by the brightness and cleanliness of most of the older stones. Haven't seen this much before, but the efforts of the restoration project are working! This cemetery holds a wealth of history and comes highly recommended for both history and paranormal enthusiasts!"
Our Haunted Travels - PANICd
"What a historic cemetery. It starts with the burial place of Francis Scott Key many war veterans. The cemetery is very large and well marked. The grounds are immaculate. So everyone who visits needs to keep it that way. There is a large map at the entrance showing burial sites as well as a computer to find what or who you are looking for. There are also very clean restrooms and a small chapel. The property is privately owned and is a working cemetery, however, they make it welcome to all visitors. There is a cemetery office on site at the entrance in a Victorian home. This property, located in the city of Frederick is so quiet and peaceful. It is truly a historic gem of Frederick!"
Remo Molino
"Amazing history, a little under cared for, but if you want to see history dating back to 1852, you should go here. It is truly a walk in history, more than a full days worth of walking to see all the pre 1930 head stones."
Philip Dethlefs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Olivet Cemetery has multiple locations. The Frederick, Maryland site is accessible by car, with parking available. For the Detroit, Michigan location, driving is also the most common method. Specific public transport options may vary by city, so check local transit schedules.
The primary Mount Olivet Cemetery in Frederick, Maryland is located at 5101 Frederick Ave, Frederick, MD 21703. There are also Mount Olivet Cemeteries in other cities like Detroit, MI, and Queens, NY. Always confirm the specific location you intend to visit.
Yes, parking is generally available at Mount Olivet Cemetery locations, especially at the main entrances. It's advisable to check the specific cemetery's website or call ahead if you have concerns about parking availability.
Depending on your starting point and the specific Mount Olivet Cemetery location, walking might be possible. However, many are quite large, and public transport might be more practical for reaching the grounds if you are not driving.
While not always formally advertised, some historical societies or local groups may organize tours. It's best to check the cemetery's official website or local historical resources for any scheduled guided tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mount Olivet Cemetery is generally free to enter for visitors wishing to explore the grounds and historical sites. It functions as a working cemetery, welcoming respectful visitors.
Operating hours can vary by location and season. Typically, cemeteries are open during daylight hours. It's recommended to check the specific Mount Olivet Cemetery's website or call their office for the most accurate hours.
Visiting cemeteries at night is generally discouraged and may be prohibited due to safety and respect for the grounds. Always adhere to the posted hours of operation.
No, tickets are not required for general visitation to Mount Olivet Cemetery. Entry is typically free and open to the public during its operating hours.
Visitors are expected to be respectful, stay on designated paths, and not disturb gravesites or memorials. Photography is usually permitted, but check for any specific rules regarding drones or commercial filming.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Notable burials include Francis Scott Key (Frederick, MD), Lane Frost (Hugo, OK), and various Civil War figures. The 'Showmen's Rest' section in Hugo is also a unique attraction. +1
Yes, Mount Olivet Cemetery offers beautiful scenery, historic headstones, and unique mausoleums, making it a popular spot for photographers. Capture the atmosphere and intricate details.
Restrooms are typically available at larger Mount Olivet Cemetery locations, often near the main office or chapel. It's advisable to confirm their availability when you visit.
Many Mount Olivet Cemetery locations have an office with a directory or an online grave locator tool to help you find specific burials.
Absolutely. Many visitors find Mount Olivet Cemetery to be a peaceful and serene place for a quiet walk, offering historical insights and beautiful landscapes.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the grand mausoleums, intricate headstone carvings, tree-lined avenues, and historical markers. The 'Showmen's Rest' in Hugo and the Civil War section in Frederick offer unique photographic opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography, drone usage, or extensive staging may require prior permission. Always check the cemetery's specific policies.
Visitors often capture landscape shots of the grounds, detailed close-ups of headstones, and portraits with historical backdrops. The atmospheric nature of cemeteries lends itself well to moody and artistic photography.
Yes, you can photograph individual graves, especially those of historical significance. Be mindful of any private family plots and always maintain a respectful distance.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlighting textures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Paranormal Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique History of Showmen's Rest
Walking through Showmen's Rest, you'll find a poignant collection of headstones that reflect the lives of these entertainers. Many graves are adorned with symbols related to the circus, such as elephants, lions, or theatrical masks. It's a fascinating and often overlooked piece of American history, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who brought entertainment to the masses.
This special section of Mount Olivet Cemetery serves as a lasting tribute to the legacy of the circus in Hugo, a town that proudly embraces its title as 'Circus City, USA'. It's a place where the stories of performers, often lost to time, are preserved in stone.
Mount Olivet Cemetery: A Walk Through American History
Beyond military figures, Mount Olivet Cemetery in Frederick also honors President John Hanson, the first president of the United States under the Articles of Confederation, and his wife. This highlights the cemetery's role in preserving the legacies of influential figures from various eras of American governance and culture. The garden-style layout and the sheer age of many headstones, some dating back to 1852, contribute to the feeling of walking through a living history book.
Other Mount Olivet Cemetery locations, such as the one in Detroit, Michigan, are known for interring notable figures from different walks of life, including gangsters.
These diverse burials underscore the cemetery's broad historical significance, reflecting the varied tapestry of American society and its prominent, and sometimes notorious, individuals.The Artistic and Natural Beauty of Mount Olivet
The mature trees, well-maintained landscaping, and the variety of intricate headstones and mausoleums create a visually engaging environment. The cemetery's design often reflects the garden-style cemetery movement, emphasizing natural beauty and artistic expression in its layout and monuments.Community efforts, such as tree planting initiatives, further enhance the natural beauty of Mount Olivet Cemetery. These projects not only add greenery and shade but also contribute to the overall ecological health of the area. The presence of wildlife, like the turkeys spotted strolling through the grounds, adds to the tranquil and natural atmosphere, making it a peaceful place for reflection and appreciation of both nature and art.
+1Photographers and artists are drawn to Mount Olivet Cemetery for its unique blend of history, art, and nature. The play of light and shadow on the old stones, the architectural details of the monuments, and the surrounding greenery provide endless inspiration. It's a place where one can find quiet contemplation amidst a backdrop of enduring beauty.
+1
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