“Multi-denominational” might not be the first phrase you associate with a cemetery. Yet, here at St. John Cemetery, that’s precisely what defines it. St. John Cemetery is owned and operated by St. John’s Cemetery, Inc.
Established in 1845, this historic cemetery is located at East 3rd Street in Frederick, Maryland. The cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures.
Enoch Louis Lowe rests here. He was the 29th Governor. Father John McElroy, S.J. is also buried here. He founded St. John’s Literary Institute and Boston College. Also of interest are a number of French settlers. Two of Napoleon’s soldiers who survived Waterloo rest here.
A recent addition to St. John Cemetery in 2019 is a 405 niche columbarium. It is for the permanent repose of loved ones. As well, there are still spaces available for in-ground burials.
Louise Howe Bailey rests here too. She was a noted Flat Rock historian and author. Her granite tombstone is simple. The plain gray marker belies her contributions.
Louise wrote about the cemetery in her 1995 book. It was titled, “In Memoriam.” She noted summer residents found their health improved. They found spiritual enrichment at the Church of Saint John in the Wilderness. Many chose St. John’s secluded cemetery for their final resting place. Someone was heard to say, “Flat Rock is the home of my soul.” A walk through the church and graves is a journey through over a century and a half of history.
Charles Baring built a private chapel. It burned in a woods fire. In 1833, work began on a second church built of handmade brick. In August of 1836, the Barings deeded their chapel to the Diocese of North Carolina.
The churchyard at St. John’s is of historic significance. It has graves of first families. There are descendants of signers of the Declaration of Independence. Also 19th century politicians, military leaders and heroes are here.
James Brown rests at St. John Cemetery. He was a trumpeter with the Royal Scots Greys. He fought Napoleon at the battle of Waterloo. Later he was a member of the Barings household staff. It has been rumored that on stormy nights the sound of a trumpet can be heard. It echoes from James Brown’s grave. During prohibition, moonshiners hid their wares under his tomb.
Andrew Johnstone is buried here too. He was a rice planter. He was shot and killed in his Flat Rock home.
Christopher Gustavus Memminger also rests here. He was the first Secretary of the Treasury of the Confederate States.
The Reverend John Grimke Drayton rests here. He was a rector of Saint John in the Wilderness. He was a developer of the Magnolia Gardens near Charleston.
General Edward Postell King is buried here. He surrendered American and Philippine troops to the Japanese on Bataan during World War 2.
There is a memorial stone for Charles Purcell Cecil. He died while serving in the Navy during World War II.
One section is reserved for slaves, freedmen, and their children. About 100 graves are estimated to be in this burial ground. A granite cross honors these early members.
David Dethero remembers when the grounds were unkempt. Carlton Sears established the Historic Grounds Beautification and Maintenance Endowment in 1993.
The churchyard features azaleas and rhododendron hybrids. They had been cultivated by Dr. Augie Kerr.
St. John Cemetery has a strong spirit. You feel the presence. It’s not just the history.