Whispering winds rustle through the ancient oaks of Forest Hills Cemetery. This isn’t just any graveyard. It’s a sprawling 275-acre sanctuary a living testament to Boston’s rich history. Established in 1848 Forest Hills Cemetery initially served as Roxbury’s municipal cemetery. It later transitioned to a private institution following Roxbury’s annexation by Boston in 1868.
More than a burial ground Forest Hills is a masterpiece of landscape design. Henry A S Dearborn envisioned a park-like setting. He wanted a space for remembrance and tranquility. His design integrated nature’s beauty with stunning monuments. Many of these were crafted by renowned sculptors. Think Daniel Chester French’s Death Staying the Hand of the Sculptor. It’s a poignant tribute to the artistry of the cemetery itself.
Walk among the stately trees. Discover the quiet elegance of its many mausoleums. Forest Hills Cemetery is a treasure trove of history. Prominent figures rest here. Poets like Anne Sexton and E E Cummings. Playwright Eugene O’Neill is here too. Even revolutionaries like William Dawes are buried within its grounds. The cemetery’s democratic approach to burial ensured a diverse mix of Bostonians. Everyone from paupers to prominent citizens found their final resting place here.
In 1893 Forest Hills added Massachusetts’ first crematorium. It also added unique features. This includes a scattering garden. An indoor columbarium and an outdoor columbarium reflect evolving burial practices. The cemetery’s progressive nature extended to its openness. It embraced various religions social classes and ethnic groups. This is a remarkable aspect of its rich history.
The cemetery’s grounds offer a breathtaking panorama of Boston. Notice the diverse plant life. Some specimens were introduced to the US by the Arnold Arboretum. This enhances the beauty and creates a vibrant ecosystem. Forest Hills continues to be an active cemetery. Interments take place regularly. The grounds serve as a tranquil retreat a place of reflection and remembrance.
More than just a cemetery Forest Hills is a living museum. It showcases the evolution of American burial practices. It celebrates the lives of countless individuals. It offers stunning natural beauty and historical significance. This is a place where you can connect with Boston’s past present and future. So take a moment breathe deeply and appreciate the unique atmosphere of Forest Hills Cemetery.