Consecrated in 1855 Mount Wollaston Cemetery in Quincy Massachusetts is more than just a resting place. It’s a living testament to history. A journey through its grounds unveils stories of prominent families and significant events.
The cemetery wasn’t always there. Before 1855 Quincy’s Hancock Cemetery was full. A committee sought a new burial ground. They selected land donated by William Coddington near Mount Wollaston. This site holds a special place in Quincy’s history. It’s close to where the town was originally founded.
The cemetery’s design is noteworthy. Luther Briggs designed it. He drew inspiration from other notable cemeteries. Places like Forest Hills and Mount Auburn influenced his Gothic Revival style. The first plots were bought in 1856 by Charles Francis Adams Sr. He was a prominent attorney and the son of John Quincy Adams. A former US President.
Mount Wollaston Cemetery isn’t just about the elite. It honors veterans. A special section holds monuments for various wars. The Civil War Monument features cannons. There are memorials for the Spanish-American War World Wars I and II the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Even city firemen and policemen are honored.
Among the notable figures buried here are several Adams family members. Charles Francis Adams Sr Charles Francis Adams Jr and Charles Francis Adams III are all interred here. So are John Quincy Adams II the historian Brooks Adams and actor Billy De Wolfe. A less well-known burial is that of Harriet E Wilson. She is considered the first African-American female novelist.
The cemetery’s 57 acres offer more than just graves. It’s a window into Quincy’s past. The granite monuments showcase the skill of local artisans. The Lyons Granite Company’s innovative turning technique is on display. The stone wall built by the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s stands as a lasting tribute to Thomas Morton. He led a settlement there in 1625.
Mount Wollaston Cemetery is a peaceful place. It offers reflection and remembrance. It’s a blend of history architecture and the stories of those who rest there. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Quincy’s rich history.