Boalsburg Cemetery
A historically significant cemetery in Boalsburg, PA, often cited as the birthplace of Memorial Day, offering a place for remembrance and reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for reflection
Boalsburg Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historically significant cemetery in Boalsburg, PA, often cited as the birthplace of Memorial Day, offering a place for remembrance and reflection.
"Many visitors commend specific staff members for their professionalism and helpfulness."
Confirm Arrangements
If making pre-need arrangements, confirm all details and expectations with staff to avoid future issues. :admission_tickets:
Inquire About Tours
Check for guided walking tours, especially around Memorial Day, for historical context. 🚶
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
2.9 · 21 reviews
Type
Cemetery
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Memorial Day Origins
Boalsburg, Pennsylvania
Explore the site often cited as the birthplace of Memorial Day, a place of profound historical and patriotic significance.
Family Plots and Heritage
Throughout the cemetery
Discover generations of local families laid to rest, offering a glimpse into the community's enduring history.
Historical Walking Tours
Cemetery grounds
Join guided tours to uncover the stories and historical context of this significant Pennsylvania landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understanding Boalsburg Cemetery's Legacy
Navigating Visitor Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Arrangements
If making pre-need arrangements, confirm all details and expectations with staff to avoid future issues. :admission_tickets:
Inquire About Tours
Check for guided walking tours, especially around Memorial Day, for historical context. 🚶
Grounds Maintenance
Be aware that grounds maintenance can be inconsistent; manage expectations regarding grave site appearance. :gardening_glove:
Map Availability
A cemetery map showing grave site numbers would be helpful for visitors. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Arrangements
If making pre-need arrangements, confirm all details and expectations with staff to avoid future issues. :admission_tickets:
Inquire About Tours
Check for guided walking tours, especially around Memorial Day, for historical context. 🚶
Grounds Maintenance
Be aware that grounds maintenance can be inconsistent; manage expectations regarding grave site appearance. :gardening_glove:
Map Availability
A cemetery map showing grave site numbers would be helpful for visitors. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Boalsburg Cemetery is a place of historical significance, particularly for its connection to Memorial Day origins. While many visitors commend specific staff members for their professionalism and helpfulness, some reviews highlight concerns regarding communication issues and inconsistent grounds maintenance. Visitors seeking historical context and a place for quiet reflection will find value, but it's advisable to manage expectations regarding administrative responsiveness and upkeep.
"My husband and I decided we wanted to make all prearrangements for our burials to lighten the load for our only son's family. My parents are already buried there, and so will my brother and SIL upon their deaths.
Our experience with Traci was wonderful. She walked us through all the decisions we needed to make and could not have been more helpful. She also followed through on some paper work that would arrive in the mail, and how to handle it.
Yes I agree, it would be nice if there was a map available showing all the grave site numbers. Hopefully we'll see that in the future."
Vicki Vallance
"Nicole was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and friendly! We felt comfortable talking to her about our needs and concerns and she answered anything we asked in a friendly manner. I highly recommend her and the new caretakers of the Memorial Park. This is in marked contrast to the previous caretakers, who failed to maintain anything, and were evasive to requests to have items repaired."
Barry Rowland
"My father had prepaid and planned on having his remains buried at a family plot here. Communication with the staff was horrible and so frustrating! I would call and get no return call. I had to constantly call for several weeks to ever be able to speak with someone. My dad died almost a year ago and I have been planning his ceremony for the past 5 months. His headstone was not ready for the service even though he planned/payed for it in advance and I had been in contact with the staff (when I could actually get someone on the phone as they would not return my calls). If I did not have to use this facility I would not choose them In the future."
Jill Hanson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boalsburg Cemetery is located in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania. It is accessible by car via local roads. Visitors can use GPS navigation systems with the address 'Boalsburg Cemetery, Boalsburg, PA'. Parking is generally available on-site, though it may be more limited during special events like Memorial Day weekend.
Public transportation options to Boalsburg Cemetery are limited. It is primarily a destination reached by private vehicle. Check local Centre County transit schedules for any nearby bus routes, but plan for potential walking distances.
While specific hours for public access to the grounds may vary, cemeteries are often open from dawn to dusk. For specific inquiries about access or to visit administrative offices, it's best to contact the cemetery directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no admission fee to visit and walk through Boalsburg Cemetery. It is a public space for remembrance and historical exploration. Fees may apply for plot purchases or specific services.
Yes, pre-arrangement of burial plots is available. Many visitors, like those mentioned in reviews, choose to plan ahead to ease the burden on their families. Contacting the cemetery office is the best way to discuss options and pricing. +1
Headstone arrangements and installation can take time. If pre-paid, ensure clear communication with the cemetery staff regarding timelines, especially if a service date is approaching, as some visitors have experienced delays.
Guided walking tours are sometimes offered, particularly around significant dates like Memorial Day weekend. These tours provide valuable historical context and stories about the cemetery's past. Inquire with the cemetery or local historical societies for schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Boalsburg Cemetery is historically significant as one of the sites claiming to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. The tradition of decorating soldiers' graves is said to have begun here in 1864.
Reviews indicate that the condition of the grounds can be inconsistent. While some caretakers are praised for their professionalism, others have received criticism for poor maintenance, leading to disappointment for some visitors. +1
Currently, there isn't a readily available map showing all grave site numbers, which some visitors have noted as a potential improvement. Navigating may require asking for directions or exploring sections.
The atmosphere is generally one of solemn remembrance and historical reflection. It's a place where visitors can connect with local history and honor those who have served.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Boalsburg Cemetery does not typically have on-site dining facilities. Visitors planning a longer stay or attending events may wish to bring their own refreshments or dine at nearby establishments in Boalsburg.
The village of Boalsburg offers several dining options, ranging from casual cafes to local eateries. These are usually a short drive from the cemetery grounds, providing convenient choices for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted at Boalsburg Cemetery for personal, non-commercial use. It's a place of historical and personal significance, and visitors often capture the serene landscape and historical markers. Please be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
The cemetery offers picturesque views, especially during spring and fall. Look for mature trees, historical headstones, and the overall landscape for evocative shots. The sense of history and remembrance provides a unique photographic subject.
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