Walter Street Burying Ground

Introduction

Tucked away in Boston’s Jamaica Plain and Roslindale neighborhoods, the Walter Street Burying Ground offers a rare, tranquil window into the city’s colonial and Revolutionary War past. Established in the early 1700s, this historic cemetery is the final resting place of early settlers, parishioners of the Second Parish Church of Roxbury, and soldiers who served during the American Revolution. Unlike Boston’s downtown burial grounds, Walter Street retains a distinctly rural atmosphere, with its modest slate headstones, traditional stone walls, and peaceful setting on Peters Hill next to the Arnold Arboretum.

The site is particularly significant for its role in Revolutionary War history: it includes a memorial for soldiers who died of smallpox and were reinterred here, now marked by a commemorative puddingstone boulder. The cemetery’s gravestones, many adorned with classic Puritan motifs such as winged skulls and cherubs, provide valuable insight into early New England religious beliefs and attitudes toward death. While smaller and quieter than more famous sites like the Granary Burying Ground or King’s Chapel, Walter Street Burying Ground offers a contemplative experience and a unique perspective on Boston’s early history.

Visitors are welcome daily from dawn to dusk at no cost, with paved paths available for accessibility, though some uneven terrain remains due to the site’s age. The cemetery is sometimes featured in guided tours by local historical organizations and the Arnold Arboretum, which provide additional context and storytelling. Its proximity to the Arnold Arboretum, Loring-Greenough House, and Roslindale Village makes it a rewarding stop for those interested in Boston’s heritage.

For more information, visit the Jamaica Plain Historical Society and the City of Boston’s official cemeteries page.

Discover Walter Street Burying Ground: Boston’s Hidden Gem

Origins and Development

Founded in 1712 on land donated by Joseph Weld, Walter Street Burying Ground served the Second Parish Church of Roxbury and the local community. It functioned as a parish burial ground, hosting interments from the early 18th century through the early 19th century. The remaining slate gravestones, dating from 1712 to 1812, are a tangible link to Boston’s early settler era (Jamaica Plain Historical Society).

Revolutionary War Significance

The cemetery stands out as the reinterment site for Revolutionary War soldiers who died of smallpox during the Siege of Boston. Originally buried near the Loring-Greenough House, their remains were relocated to Walter Street in the 19th century as urban development disturbed the original graveyard. Their sacrifice is commemorated by a puddingstone boulder plaque, placed by the Massachusetts Society of the Sons of the Revolution in 1906 (Jamaica Plain Historical Society).

Notable Burials and Features

Though only a handful of gravestones remain visible, the cemetery contains the remains of many local families, most notably the Weld family, prominent in the area’s early history. The brick crypt in the grounds likely holds additional remains, especially those moved during 19th-century street improvements.

Visiting Information: Hours, Access, and Tips

• Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk; no tickets or fees required.
• Location: At the intersection of Walter and South Streets, Jamaica Plain/Roslindale, adjacent to the Arnold Arboretum.
• Accessibility: Paved paths at the main entrance; some uneven terrain persists.
• Transportation: MBTA bus routes serve Roslindale Square, which is a short walk away. Limited street parking is available.
• Facilities: No restrooms on site; facilities are available at the Arnold Arboretum Visitor Center.

Visitor Etiquette

• Respect the solemnity of the site: avoid touching headstones or walking over graves.
• Remain on designated paths.
• Photography is permitted for personal use; commercial photography requires city permission.
• Dogs must be leashed.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours are offered occasionally by local historical societies, especially during heritage months or community events. These tours provide deeper context about the cemetery’s history, gravestone symbolism, and the stories of those interred. For updates, check local event calendars or the Arnold Arboretum’s official website.

Architectural and Artistic Features

Walter Street Burying Ground maintains a traditional colonial layout, with orderly rows of gravestones crafted from slate, sandstone, and marble. The headstones feature Puritan-era symbols such as winged skulls, cherubs, urns, and biblical inscriptions, reflecting the religious attitudes of the time (Boston.gov). The stone walls and rural landscape evoke the early American approach to burial grounds.

Cultural and Educational Significance

This cemetery is part of Boston’s Historic Burying Grounds network and illustrates the city’s evolution from rural towns to urban neighborhoods. Its preservation is a testament to Boston’s commitment to honoring its heritage, with ongoing support from the city and local organizations (Boston.gov Historic Burying Grounds Initiative).

Walter Street Burying Ground is also a valuable educational resource, offering insights into genealogy, local history, and early American funerary art. Community engagement includes clean-up days and interpretive programs that connect current residents with their neighborhood’s past.

Nearby Attractions

• Arnold Arboretum: A renowned botanical garden perfect for a stroll before or after your visit (Arnold Arboretum).
• Loring-Greenough House: A colonial-era home with Revolutionary War connections, offering tours and community events (Loring-Greenough House).
• Roslindale Village: A vibrant neighborhood with dining, shopping, and local events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Walter Street Burying Ground visiting hours?
A: Open daily from dawn to dusk.

Q: Are tickets or admission fees required?
A: No, the cemetery is free to visit.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Paved paths at the main entrance provide some accessibility, but uneven ground exists in older sections.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Tours are occasional; check local listings or the Arnold Arboretum website.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, for personal use only. Commercial photography requires permission from the city.

Walter Street offers a peaceful, contemplative alternative to more crowded cemeteries, with a strong focus on local and Revolutionary War history.

Preservation Efforts

The cemetery is maintained by the City of Boston’s Parks & Recreation Department. Community involvement and donations through the Historic Burying Grounds Initiative help ensure ongoing preservation (Boston.gov Historic Burying Grounds Initiative).

Plan Your Visit & Stay Connected

Walter Street Burying Ground is an essential stop for history enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful connection to Boston’s colonial roots. For guided audio tours and interactive maps, download the Audiala app. Stay up-to-date on events and preservation efforts by following us on social media.

Summary

Walter Street Burying Ground stands as a vital link to Boston’s colonial and Revolutionary War heritage, combining historical significance with a peaceful, rural setting. Its accessibility and free admission make it an inviting destination for history buffs, genealogists, and casual visitors alike. Ongoing preservation and community engagement efforts ensure that this hidden gem remains an important part of Boston’s historical landscape.

For official updates, visit the Boston.gov Historic Burying Grounds Initiative and the Jamaica Plain Historical Society.