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Old Burying Ground Beaufort

4.8
·502 reviews·Beaufort, United States

Explore Beaufort's 300-year-old cemetery, a historic treasure with tales of soldiers, legends, and early American life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daily, 9:30 AM - 5 PM

Open hours for respectful visits

CrowdLow
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Old historic home

Old Burying Ground Beaufort

Best Time

Daily, 9:30 AM - 5 PM

Open hours for respectful visits

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Beaufort's 300-year-old cemetery, a historic treasure with tales of soldiers, legends, and early American life.

4.8
(502 reviews)

"It is definitely like something out of a book! I visit it each time I'm in the area."

Vertical photo
TIP

Grab a Walking Tour Map

Pick one up at the gate or download it to learn the fascinating stories behind the graves. :iphone:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on uneven ground, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rum Keg Girl

The Rum Keg Girl

Old Burying Ground

A young girl who died at sea, legend says she was preserved in a barrel of rum for her journey home.

InstagramReddit
British Naval Officer

British Naval Officer

Old Burying Ground

A unique grave where an officer is said to be buried standing upright, saluting King George III.

InstagramReddit
Revolutionary & Civil War Soldiers

Revolutionary & Civil War Soldiers

Old Burying Ground

Pay respects to soldiers who fought for their country, their stories etched in stone.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Exploration is Key

This is a historic cemetery, so please tread lightly and respectfully. Many visitors recommend picking up a walking tour map from the Beaufort Historical Society just inside the gate to fully appreciate the stories behind the graves. InstagramReddit

Uncover Centuries of Stories

With graves dating back to 1711, the Old Burying Ground is a treasure trove of history. Look for markers from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and don't miss the unique tales like the 'Rum Keg Girl.' InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Daily, 9:30 AM - 5 PM
Why
Open hours for respectful visits
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Quiet and reflective atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Old Burying Ground: Historical Place in Beaufort NC.
_latashahampton
1 likes • 169 views

Grab a Walking Tour Map

Pick one up at the gate or download it to learn the fascinating stories behind the graves. InstagramReddit :iphone:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on uneven ground, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Old Burying Ground, Beaufort, North Carolina. . . . . . . . #cemetary #cemeteries #CemeteryWander #cemeterytravel #cemeterylovers #cemeteriesofinstagram #cemetery #graveyard #graveyard #graveyards #graveyard_lovers #northcarolina #oldgraveyard #gravestone
generationsfound
68 likes • 1.2K views
Walking through the Old Burying Ground in Beaufort, North Carolina. A must-see when visiting the Outer Banks. Graves date back to 1711. Pick up a walking tour map just inside the gate produced by the Beaufort Historical Society. Grave markers from the War of 1812, the Civil War, a little girl buried in a barrel of rum, star crossed lovers kept apart until they were finally married…only to have th...
hitraveltales
92 likes • 4.4K views

Respect the Space

Remember this is a historic cemetery; be quiet and mindful of the resting places. Instagram :pray:

Look for Unique Graves

Seek out the 'Rum Keg Girl' and the standing British officer for truly memorable stories. InstagramReddit

Old Burying Ground Beaufort NC …the grave of an officer in His Majesty’s Navy in the 1700’s. #graveyard #beaufortnc #oldburyinggroundsbeaufortnc #britishofficer #england🇬🇧 #hismajestysnavy #salute #grave #majestykinggeorgeIII #300yearoldcemetery #seasidecemetery #walkingtour #walkingtours #england #military
junefindlay
22 likes • 334 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Grab a Walking Tour Map

Pick one up at the gate or download it to learn the fascinating stories behind the graves. InstagramReddit :iphone:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on uneven ground, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Respect the Space

Remember this is a historic cemetery; be quiet and mindful of the resting places. Instagram :pray:

Look for Unique Graves

Seek out the 'Rum Keg Girl' and the standing British officer for truly memorable stories. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(502 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Old Burying Ground for its historical significance and unique, captivating stories, describing it as a 'gorgeous' and 'fascinating' place that feels 'like something out of a book.' Many appreciate the opportunity to learn about local legends and historical figures through maps and tours. Some note that while beautiful, it's a solemn place requiring respectful exploration.

"If you haven't been here it's a must! Especially if you care about history! This place is gorgeous! It is definitely like something out of a book! I visit it each time I'm in the area.."

A Griffith

"Walked right in, so neat to see such old graves and read about the little girl. We left something for her at her grave site. Google rum keg girl in beaufort NC."

Dannielle Lamb

"You can stop at the nearby tourist center and pick up a map of the cemetery or you can download it to your phone. Some of the grave sites are numbered and the map tells you the story of the person there. Very beautiful cemetery."

christina garrett

What People Like

Rich historical significance
Unique and captivating stories
Beautiful and atmospheric setting

What People Dislike

Can be somber for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Burying Ground is located at 411 Ann St, Beaufort, NC. It's easily accessible by car and is a pleasant walk from many downtown accommodations. Parking is generally available nearby. Instagram

While specific public transport routes directly to the cemetery might be limited, Beaufort is a walkable town. Consider local trolley tours or taxis if you prefer not to drive. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Old Burying Ground is generally free. It's open to respectful visitors daily. Instagram

The cemetery is typically open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM, allowing ample time for exploration. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended by visitors for deeper insights into the cemetery's history and stories. Reddit

You can usually pick up a walking tour map just inside the gate, often produced by the Beaufort Historical Society, or download one to your phone. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find graves dating back to 1711, including those of Revolutionary and Civil War soldiers, unique markers like the 'Rum Keg Girl,' and an officer buried standing. InstagramReddit+1

The ground can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. The paths are generally navigable for a self-guided tour. Reddit

Visitors often highlight the 'Rum Keg Girl' and the British Naval Officer buried standing as particularly fascinating and unique. InstagramReddit

Photography is generally permitted, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Instagram

It's one of North Carolina's oldest cemeteries, with a rich history spanning over 300 years, featuring graves of early settlers and soldiers. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The ancient live oak trees draped with Spanish moss create a beautiful, atmospheric backdrop. Focus on the intricate details of the gravestones and the unique markers. Instagram

While generally allowed, always be mindful and respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during any services or quiet moments. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the old stones. Overcast days can also provide soft, even lighting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Burying Ground can be a fascinating, albeit somber, educational experience for families. The unique stories, like the 'Rum Keg Girl,' can capture children's imaginations and make history come alive.InstagramReddit Encourage them to look for interesting symbols on the gravestones and to be respectful of the quiet atmosphere. Picking up a walking tour map can help keep them engaged as you explore together. Remember to emphasize that this is a place where people are remembered, fostering a sense of respect and solemnity.

Ensure children wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven. It's a great opportunity to discuss history, local legends, and the importance of preserving historical sites. While it might not be a playground, the intriguing tales and the ancient trees can make for a memorable and educational outing for curious young minds.

🏛️ History Buffs & Genealogy Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, the Old Burying Ground is an absolute must-visit. With graves dating back to 1711, it offers a direct connection to Beaufort's colonial past, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War.Instagram+1 The sheer density of historical figures and the unique stories associated with them, such as the British Naval Officer and the 'Rum Keg Girl,' provide rich material for exploration.InstagramReddit

Consider arranging for a guided tour if available, as local guides often share captivating anecdotes and historical context that might not be found on a map alone.Reddit The Beaufort Historical Society is an excellent resource for further research. This cemetery is a prime location for anyone interested in early American life, military history, or tracing ancestral roots in the region.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Unearthing Beaufort's Past

The Old Burying Ground in Beaufort, North Carolina, is a living testament to centuries of history, with its earliest graves dating back to 1711.Instagram This historic cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of the town's deep roots, housing the final resting places of early settlers, Revolutionary War soldiers, and Civil War veterans.Instagram Walking through its grounds is like stepping back in time, with weathered gravestones telling silent stories of lives lived and battles fought.

Beyond the military figures, the cemetery holds some truly unique and captivating tales. One of the most talked-about is the legend of the 'Rum Keg Girl,' a young woman who tragically died at sea and was reportedly preserved in a barrel of rum for her journey back to shore.InstagramReddit Another intriguing marker belongs to a British Naval Officer who, according to local lore, was buried standing upright in salute to King George III.InstagramReddit These stories, shared through walking tour maps and local guides, add a layer of fascination to the solemnity of the site.

For visitors interested in genealogy or simply the history of colonial America, the Old Burying Ground offers an unparalleled glimpse into the past. The Beaufort Historical Society plays a crucial role in preserving these stories, often providing maps and information to help visitors navigate and understand the significance of each grave. It’s a place that encourages reflection and a deeper appreciation for the heritage of the region.Reddit

Navigating the Old Burying Ground

Exploring the Old Burying Ground is a straightforward yet deeply rewarding experience. The cemetery is generally open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM, making it accessible for most visitors.Instagram While entry is free, many visitors strongly recommend obtaining a walking tour map from the Beaufort Historical Society, often available just inside the main gate or for download to your phone.InstagramReddit This map is invaluable for identifying key graves and understanding the narratives associated with them.

When it comes to navigating the grounds, comfortable footwear is essential. The terrain can be uneven, with grass, dirt paths, and the occasional exposed root. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and respectfully, recognizing that this is a place of remembrance. The atmosphere is typically quiet and contemplative, allowing for a peaceful exploration of the historical markers.InstagramReddit

For those seeking a more in-depth understanding, guided tours are sometimes offered and are highly praised for bringing the history to life with engaging storytelling.Reddit Whether you opt for a self-guided tour with a map or join a group, the Old Burying Ground promises a moving and educational experience, connecting you directly with Beaufort's rich past.

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