Old Burying Ground (Watertown, Massachusetts)

The Old Burying Ground, also known as the Common Burying Ground, is a historic cemetery located in Watertown, Massachusetts. Established in 1660, it is one of the oldest burying grounds in the United States and is significant for its early Puritan gravestones and the individuals interred there, many of whom were among the first settlers of Watertown.

The burying ground reflects the evolving funerary art and customs of the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Early gravestones are typically made of slate and feature simple, symbolic carvings representing mortality, such as skulls, winged death's heads, and cherubs. Later gravestones show a greater variety of styles and materials, including marble and granite, and feature more elaborate epitaphs.

The Old Burying Ground contains the remains of numerous notable figures in Watertown's early history, including founding families, ministers, and Revolutionary War soldiers. While a complete list of interments is not readily available, local historical societies and genealogical resources may offer more detailed information about specific individuals buried within the grounds.

The site is currently maintained by the Town of Watertown. It is a valuable resource for historical research and a tangible link to the town's colonial past. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and learn about the lives of those who helped shape the community. Preservation efforts are ongoing to protect the fragile gravestones from weathering and other forms of damage.