Copp'S Hill Burying Ground

Introduction: Copp’s Hill Burying Ground – A Portal to Boston’s Past

Nestled in Boston’s historic North End, Copp’s Hill Burying Ground stands as a testament to the city’s colonial heritage, Revolutionary War legacy, and evolving social fabric. Established in 1659, it is Boston’s second-oldest cemetery and offers a unique window into early American life. With over 2,000 gravestones and an estimated 10,000 burials—including Puritan settlers, influential ministers, Revolutionary patriots, and members of Boston’s African American community—Copp’s Hill reflects the layered stories that shaped the city. Its strategic hilltop location overlooking Boston Harbor was crucial during the Revolutionary War, and today, visitors encounter both remarkable history and panoramic city views (Battlefields.org; NPS.gov; The Freedom Trail).

This comprehensive guide explores Copp’s Hill’s origins, notable burials, cultural impact, practical visitor information—including hours, accessibility, and tours—as well as tips to enhance your experience. Whether you are a history enthusiast, genealogist, or a traveler on the Freedom Trail, Copp’s Hill Burying Ground is an essential stop for understanding Boston’s story (Boston.gov; Tomb Travel; Forever Vacation).

Origins and Development

Originally known as the North Burying Ground, Copp’s Hill was named for William Copp, an early settler and shoemaker. The cemetery’s establishment in 1659 responded to the city’s growing population beyond the capacity of King’s Chapel Burying Ground (1630) (Battlefields.org; Step Boston). Its hilltop setting provided both a practical and symbolic resting place, offering commanding views of Boston Harbor and the surrounding neighborhoods (NPS.gov).

By the late 17th century, Copp’s Hill Burying Ground served as the final resting place for a diverse cross-section of Boston society, including Puritan ministers, merchants, craftsmen, and a significant number of African Americans, both enslaved and free. The cemetery expanded over time, mirroring Boston’s demographic and social changes (Battlefields.org).

Notable Burials: Stories Etched in Stone

The Mather Family

Three generations of the influential Mather family—Increase Mather (1639–1723), his son Cotton Mather (1663–1728), and Samuel Mather (1706–1785)—are buried at Copp’s Hill. Their religious leadership shaped colonial Boston, and Increase and Cotton Mather were notably involved in the Salem witch trials (Battlefields.org; NPS.gov).

Prince Hall and the African American Community

Prince Hall (c. 1735–1807), a pioneering educator, abolitionist, and founder of African American Freemasonry, is interred here. His leadership was vital in advocating for Black rights in late 18th-century Boston, and his grave is now marked by a modern monument. The “New Guinea” section on the Charter Street side contains many burials of free and enslaved African Americans. Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American female poet, may also rest here in an unmarked grave (NPS.gov; Battlefields.org).

Revolutionary Patriots and Local Figures

Other notable individuals buried at Copp’s Hill include:

• Robert Newman: Sexton of the Old North Church, who signaled Paul Revere’s midnight ride (NPS.gov).
• John Pulling Jr.: Merchant and participant in the lantern signal.
• Daniel Malcolm: Patriot and merchant, whose gravestone is marked with musket ball scars from British soldiers (Battlefields.org).
• Edmund Hartt: Shipbuilder of the USS Constitution.
• Shem Drowne: Noted coppersmith and creator of Boston’s famous weathervanes.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Colonial and Revolutionary Era

Copp’s Hill’s gravestones, with their iconic “death’s head,” cherub, urn, and willow motifs, reflect Puritan attitudes toward mortality and remembrance (Step Boston; Five Minute History). The cemetery’s location made it a strategic vantage point during the American Revolution—British generals used Copp’s Hill to direct artillery fire in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Some gravestones, like Daniel Malcolm’s, still bear scars from musket balls, physical reminders of wartime Boston (Battlefields.org; NPS.gov).

Social Diversity and Evolving Memory

Copp’s Hill reflects Boston’s complex social tapestry, with graves of both elites and marginalized groups. The “potter’s field” on the Charter Street side was the burial ground for free and enslaved African Americans (NPS.gov). Modern projects like “We Were Here Too” use technology to share stories of the African American community buried here, expanding the cemetery’s commemorative narrative (boston.gov; wbur.org).

Visiting Copp’s Hill Burying Ground: Practical Information

Location and Directions

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground is located at 45 Hull Street in Boston’s North End. It is a short walk from the Old North Church and easily accessible via the MBTA’s Orange and Green Lines (Haymarket or North Station) and several bus routes. Street parking is limited, so public transportation is recommended (Boston.gov).

Visiting Hours

• Open daily: Typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, though official hours may vary seasonally (dawn to dusk in summer, shorter in winter).
• Admission: Free; no tickets required (Tomb Travel; Forever Vacation).

Accessibility

While some paths are paved, much of the cemetery features uneven terrain and sloped walkways. Wheelchair users and visitors with mobility concerns should plan accordingly and may wish to contact Boston Parks and Recreation for assistance (NPS.gov).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours are offered by organizations such as the Freedom Trail Foundation and local historical societies. These tours provide context and highlight notable graves. Seasonal events, including historical reenactments and poetry readings, are held at the site (The Freedom Trail).

Visitor Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for uneven ground.
• Dress for the weather; the cemetery is outdoors with limited shade.
• Be respectful: Avoid loud behavior and do not touch or sit on gravestones.
• Photography is welcome, particularly at the panoramic viewpoints.
• No restrooms are available on site; plan accordingly.

Nearby Attractions

• Old North Church: Famous for the “One if by land, two if by sea” signal.
• The Skinny House: Boston’s narrowest home, across from the cemetery.
• Freedom Trail: Copp’s Hill is a key stop on this historic walking route.
• North End restaurants: Enjoy Italian food and bakeries nearby.

Unique Features

• Mather Family Tomb: Resting place of Increase and Cotton Mather.
• Captain Daniel Malcolm’s Gravestone: Visible musket ball marks.
• Potter’s Field: Burial site for many free and enslaved African Americans.
• Harbor Views: Sweeping vistas of Boston Harbor and the city (The Freedom Trail).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Copp’s Hill Burying Ground?
A: Generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; hours may vary seasonally.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, admission is free and no ticket is required.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through the Freedom Trail Foundation and local historical groups.

Q: Is the cemetery accessible for people with mobility issues?
A: Some paved paths exist but much of the terrain is uneven; assistance is recommended for those with mobility concerns.

Q: Can I take photographs at Copp’s Hill?
A: Yes, photography is encouraged—especially the panoramic views and historic gravestones.

Q: Are there special events or educational programs?
A: Yes, check the City of Boston or the Freedom Trail websites for seasonal events, guided tours, and educational initiatives.

Discover More

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground remains a vital link to Boston’s past—its stories of Puritan settlers, revolutionary heroes, and the African American community are etched in stone and landscape. The visible scars of conflict, artistic gravestone carvings, and ongoing commemorative projects like “We Were Here Too” provide rich insights for visitors of all backgrounds. With free daily access, engaging tours, and an atmosphere of quiet reflection, Copp’s Hill is an essential destination for anyone seeking to connect with Boston’s heritage.

Plan your visit today. For up-to-date hours, guided tour schedules, and related historical sites, download the Audiala app and consult official city resources. Experience the stories, views, and spirit of one of Boston’s most treasured sites (Battlefields.org; Boston.gov; The Freedom Trail).