Granary Burying Ground, Boston

The Granary Burying Ground, nestled in the heart of Boston, is one of the city's most historic cemeteries. Established in 1660, this hallowed ground is the final resting place for many notable figures of the American Revolution and the early history of the United States.

Spanning about two acres, the burial site is named for the grain storage building, or granary, that once stood next door. It is located on Tremont Street, near Park Street Church, and is part of Boston's famed Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path through downtown that passes by 16 locations significant to the history of the United States.

The cemetery is renowned for being the burial site of such luminaries as Paul Revere, John Hancock, and Samuel Adams. It also houses the graves of the five victims of the Boston Massacre, as well as the family tomb of Benjamin Franklin, although Franklin himself is buried in Philadelphia. With over 2,345 markers, the Granary Burying Ground represents a rich tapestry of Boston's early history, though it's estimated that 5,000 individuals are interred there, due to the common practice of burying multiple family members under a single marker.

Despite its central location in a bustling modern city, the Granary Burying Ground is a place of tranquility and reflection. The ancient headstones and memorials, many of which feature beautiful and intricate carvings, tell the story of the city's past and its role in the shaping of the nation.

The cemetery is open to the public year-round and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and tourists alike. Visitors are encouraged to walk the grounds, pay their respects, and contemplate the lives of those who played pivotal roles in the founding of America.