Old Smithville Burying Ground
Step back in time at this historic 1792 burying ground, the resting place of Southport's oldest inhabitants.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer bugs
Old Smithville Burying Ground
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at this historic 1792 burying ground, the resting place of Southport's oldest inhabitants.
"A very dear place to stop and pay respects, feeling the age and history of the past here."
🦟 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for summer visits to ward off mosquitoes and enjoy your exploration comfortably.
🚶♀️ Walk Respectfully
This is a historic burying ground; please be mindful and quiet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oldest Inhabitants' Graves
Throughout the cemetery
Discover the final resting places of Southport's earliest settlers and feel the weight of centuries of history.
Historic Headstones
Throughout the cemetery
Admire the weathered artistry and inscriptions on headstones dating back to the late 18th century.
Ancient Oak Trees
Throughout the cemetery
Wander beneath the shade of majestic, ancient oak trees that have stood sentinel over generations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History, Respect the Peace
Beat the Bugs and the Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for summer visits to ward off mosquitoes and enjoy your exploration comfortably.
🚶♀️ Walk Respectfully
This is a historic burying ground; please be mindful and quiet.
🕰️ Feel the History
Take time to read the old headstones and connect with Southport's past.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Great for atmospheric photos, especially with the old oaks and headstones.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for summer visits to ward off mosquitoes and enjoy your exploration comfortably.
🚶♀️ Walk Respectfully
This is a historic burying ground; please be mindful and quiet.
🕰️ Feel the History
Take time to read the old headstones and connect with Southport's past.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Great for atmospheric photos, especially with the old oaks and headstones.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Old Smithville Burying Ground to be a peaceful and historically significant site, offering a poignant connection to Southport's past. While many appreciate its well-kept grounds and the sense of history, some note that summer visits can be uncomfortable due to humidity and mosquitoes. It's considered a worthwhile stop for history buffs and those seeking a quiet, reflective experience.
"Beautiful cemetery. I have several generations of family buried here."
Melissa Frizzell
"Our great great great great grandparents and children are buried here. Very dear place to stop and pay respects. Avoid buggy humid days as it’s not so comfortable but in cooler weather it’s so peaceful and pretty to explore and see names of those who were part of Southport’s history when it was Smithville, NC years ago. Beautiful established landscaping and you can really feel the age and history of the past here. A must stop as it’s so close to the waterfront."
K G
"Worth a visit! They say it's haunted by an Italian ghost named Tony! Found some Swan family buried here."
Renee Swan DeMarco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Smithville Burying Ground is located in Southport, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car and is often mentioned as being close to the waterfront, making it a convenient stop during a town exploration.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, its proximity to the waterfront suggests that public parking areas in downtown Southport are likely available nearby.
Yes, if you are already in the downtown Southport area, especially near the waterfront, it's a very walkable distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old Smithville Burying Ground is a public historical site and does not require an admission ticket. Entry is free.
As an outdoor historical site, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set closing times, but it's advisable to visit during reasonable daylight hours.
The burying ground is an open-air historical site and is typically accessible during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic headstones dating back to the town's founding, admire ancient oak trees, and connect with Southport's rich history. It's a peaceful place to reflect.
Yes, it's often described as worth a quick walk-through, especially if you're interested in local history.
As a historic cemetery, it primarily offers a historical and atmospheric experience. Restroom facilities are not typically available on-site, but are likely found in nearby downtown Southport.
Many visitors find it to be a great spot for atmospheric and historical photography, with its old headstones and majestic trees.
Some local lore suggests it might be haunted, with one mention of an Italian ghost named Tony.
🎫 🦟 Practical Tips
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. In warmer months, light clothing and bug spray are essential.
Visiting during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, can help you avoid potential crowds.
While it's a beautiful spot, summer can be very humid and buggy. Visitors recommend bringing bug spray and visiting during cooler parts of the day.
Take your time to read the inscriptions on the headstones and imagine the lives of those buried here. It's a direct connection to Southport's past.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Keep the visit brief and focused on historical learning rather than extended play. Ensure children understand the need for quiet and respectful behavior.
👻 History & Ghost Enthusiasts
Explore the historic headstones to uncover stories of Southport's earliest residents. The atmosphere, especially under the shade of ancient oaks, can feel quite profound and evocative, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the past and its mysteries.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best lighting. The quiet and serene environment allows for unhurried composition. Remember to be respectful of the site and any visitors who may be paying their respects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Southport's Origins
The cemetery is characterized by its historic headstones, many of which bear inscriptions from the late 18th and 19th centuries. These weathered markers tell silent tales of families, professions, and the challenges of early colonial life. The ancient oak trees that canopy the grounds add to the serene and somewhat somber atmosphere, having witnessed centuries of change.
For history enthusiasts and genealogists, the Old Smithville Burying Ground is an invaluable resource. It’s a place where visitors can pay respects to ancestors, learn about the town's foundational figures, and appreciate the enduring legacy of those who came before. The peaceful ambiance makes it a contemplative spot, even for those without direct family ties to the graves.
Navigating the Experience: Tips from Visitors
Visitors also emphasize the need for respectful behavior. As a place of rest and remembrance, maintaining a quiet demeanor and being mindful of the surroundings is crucial. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as you'll likely be navigating uneven ground and exploring at your own pace.
For those interested in photography, the cemetery offers a unique aesthetic with its aged gravestones and mature trees. Capturing the atmosphere can be rewarding, but always remember to do so respectfully. The best times to visit for both comfort and a more serene experience are typically during the cooler parts of the day or in the off-season.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit