Hidden · Cambridge, United States
Mount Auburn Cemetery
The first rural, or garden, cemetery in the United States: a landscaped hillside of trees, ponds and monuments that became a model for American public parks.
The first garden cemetery in the United States, laid out like a park.
Mount Auburn Cemetery spreads over 174 acres across Cambridge and Watertown, Massachusetts. Dedicated in 1831, it was the first rural, or garden, cemetery in the country: rolling, landscaped ground with classical monuments, a clear break from the burying grounds of the colonial era and the graveyards run by churches.
The idea came from Jacob Bigelow, a doctor who worried about burials under churches and about running out of space. He had the idea as early as 1825, and the land was bought five years later. Henry Alexander Scammell Dearborn designed most of it, with help from Bigelow and Alexander Wadsworth, and the Massachusetts Horticultural Society chose the plants. The model was Père Lachaise in Paris.
Its influence went far. Mount Auburn is credited with starting the American public parks and gardens movement, and cemeteries such as Laurel Hill in Philadelphia and Green-Wood in Brooklyn followed its example. It became a National Historic Landmark District in 2003.
Trees, birds, chapels and a granite tower.
More than 5,500 trees grow here, nearly 700 species and varieties, and many are tagged with their scientific and common names. Ponds, woodlands, formal gardens and open views are strung along more than 10 miles of roads and many paths. Over 220 species of birds have been recorded since 1958, so bird-watchers come as well.
Washington Tower, designed by Bigelow and built of Quincy granite in 1852–54, stands 62 feet tall and gives views over the area. Bigelow Chapel dates from the 1840s, was rebuilt in the 1850s, and kept its stained-glass windows by the Scottish firm Allan & Ballantyne. Next to the main gate, which is in Egyptian Revival style, stand the Story Chapel and Administration Building from the 1890s, built of Potsdam sandstone.
By the 1840s Mount Auburn ranked with Niagara Falls and Mount Vernon among the most popular destinations in the country, and about 60,000 people visited in 1848 alone. It is still an active, nondenominational cemetery, with more than 93,000 people buried there as of 2003, so visit quietly and with respect for the graves. Guided tours of its history, art and plants are offered.
Paths, views and monuments.
Practical notes.
Before you go.
Why is Mount Auburn Cemetery important?
It was the first rural, or garden, cemetery in the United States, dedicated in 1831. It is credited with starting the American public parks and gardens movement, and many later cemeteries copied it.
Who designed Mount Auburn Cemetery?
Henry Alexander Scammell Dearborn designed most of it, with help from Jacob Bigelow, who first proposed it, and Alexander Wadsworth. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society chose the plants.
Is Mount Auburn good for bird-watching?
Yes. More than 220 species of birds have been recorded there since 1958, and its trees and ponds make it a favorite spot for bird-watchers.
Can you take a guided tour?
Yes. Tours of the historic, artistic and horticultural points of interest are offered. Check the official website for dates and booking.
Around Cambridge
Walking tours, day trips and experiences around this area, on GetYourGuide.