Mount Auburn Cemetery

By Dan M. | Last Updated: October 13, 2003

This weekend after visiting my brother in Watertown I took the time to visit Mount Auburn Cemetery which is right near by. After wandering through the cemetery for a while I realized that it was unlike other cemeteries in many ways. While most cemeteries seem to be sad and gloomy, this cemetery was full of beauty and life. Dating back to 1831, Mount Auburn cemetery was America’s first garden cemetery. The grounds were so beautiful that many people used the old roads as a walking route. The roads in the cemetery wind through small hills and valleys and were covered with the bright fall leaves that fell from the trees above. The gravestones were very old and much larger than modern day gravestones. Some of the largest had multiple plots and belonged to the most prestigious families of Boston in years past. I also took the time to explore the tower on the hill that is located near the center of the cemetery. Built in 1852, the tower offers a spectacular view of the city and is actually a memorial to George Washington. The tower was built in a feudal style in order to achieve a romantic image and seems to serve as the focal point of the entire cemetery. The landscape and layout of the cemetery was very unique and relaxing. Interestingly enough there are still plots available if anyone is looking that far into the future. One of the things I found unique about the cemetery is how quite it was. Interestingly enough this historic landmark is located just off a busy road but at the same time it seems separate from the noise and commotion of traffic and everyday life near a big city. I found this to be a great place to relax and get away for a while, especially if you need a little time to gather your thoughts.

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