Sixty-one acres of peace. That’s Forestdale Cemetery. A sprawling expanse of history it’s more than just headstones. It tells a story of Malden.
Forestdale Cemetery dedicated on Memorial Day May 30th 1885 wasn’t always a resting place. Once it was the 56-acre Pratt Hill farm. The city of Malden purchased the land in 1883. Boston Surveyor P F Pane landscaped it in 1884. He designed it in a picturesque style. The style was very popular for cemeteries at the time.
More than just a resting place Forestdale Cemetery is a testament to time. The earliest recorded death dates back to 1885. By 2002 over 30000 headstones marked the grounds. These headstones whisper stories of lives lived.
Many veterans rest here. Their markers stand like soldiers. They represent every war from the American Revolution to the Spanish-American War. Each stone holds a personal history. A tribute to their service.
What strikes many visitors is the beauty of the older sections. The monuments are detailed. They showcase a level of artistry often missing in modern cemeteries. These elaborate monuments reflect the craftsmanship of the past. They also reflect the enduring love and respect for the departed.
Forestdale Cemetery isn’t just a place of mourning. It’s a living testament. It’s a tribute to the past. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine. It’s a treasure in Malden’s heart. A tranquil place to reflect. A place where memories live on. A place to visit. A place called Forestdale Cemetery.