Copp's Hill Burying Ground Boston
Boston's second oldest cemetery, a Freedom Trail stop with historic graves, revolutionary tales, and stunning harbor views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Copp's Hill Burying Ground Boston
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Boston's second oldest cemetery, a Freedom Trail stop with historic graves, revolutionary tales, and stunning harbor views.
"A poignant glimpse into Boston's past with unique stories and breathtaking city views."
🚶♀️ Walk the Freedom Trail
Copp's Hill is a key stop on Boston's Freedom Trail. Wear comfy shoes!
🧐 Look for Bullet Holes
Seek out Daniel Malcolm's grave for a unique historical marker.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Daniel Malcolm's Grave
Northern corner
A Patriot, wine merchant, and Son of Liberty, his tombstone bears bullet holes from British soldiers.
African American Burial Ground
Northern corner
Discover the resting place of over 1,000 African Americans, a significant historical section often overlooked.
Panoramic City Views
Eastern edge
Enjoy stunning views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline from this elevated vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect the Resting Place
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Freedom Trail
Copp's Hill is a key stop on Boston's Freedom Trail. Wear comfy shoes!
🧐 Look for Bullet Holes
Seek out Daniel Malcolm's grave for a unique historical marker.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the scenic overlooks of the harbor and city.
🤫 Respectful Silence
Remember this is a cemetery; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Freedom Trail
Copp's Hill is a key stop on Boston's Freedom Trail. Wear comfy shoes!
🧐 Look for Bullet Holes
Seek out Daniel Malcolm's grave for a unique historical marker.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the scenic overlooks of the harbor and city.
🤫 Respectful Silence
Remember this is a cemetery; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Copp's Hill Burying Ground to be a historically rich and atmospheric site, offering a poignant glimpse into Boston's past. Many appreciate the detailed historical markers, the unique stories like Daniel Malcolm's grave, and the impressive city views. Some note the uneven terrain and the solemn nature of the location.
"While this cemetery has some truly horrific stories attached - one of which is they completely moved all the gravestones and buried people on top of each other (it was said that there are 2300 gravestones but upwards of 10,000 bodies actually exist)
It’s incredible that you have this beautiful residential building staring at a cemetery that once had to be rebuilt because bodies were sliding out and mortar in this brick was disintegrating.
It’s also located in a nice part of town 🫶🏼"
Lizzy Klein
"This Boston's second oldest cemetery, dating from the middle of the 17th Century. It is now on Boston's Freedom Trail but in the nineteenth century it had fallen into some considerable disrepair. Amongst those buried here is the somewhat notorious Cotton Mather the well known apologist for the Salem Witch Trials (although he did not actually participate in them). There are some impressive views from the cemetery and it is well worth a visit."
Bernard Savage
"Incredible burial ground filled to the brim with the famous ....and not so famous. Headstones date from the 17th. Century onwards and are some of the most interesting I have ever seen in the one place. Gravestones are unfortunately very tightly packed and set in rows so care must be taken negotiating them as some are quite fragile. Thankfully the majority of headstones are made of slate and are as sharp and clearly defined as the day they were carved. An absolute must visit if taking in the Freedom Trail. Allow approx. 1 hour to view. Very helpful information plaques throughout the graveyard. Limited parking nearby....it is the North End after all."
Frank Murphy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Copp's Hill Burying Ground is easily accessible via public transportation. It's located in the North End and is a stop on the Freedom Trail. The closest MBTA subway stations are Haymarket (Orange and Green Lines) and North Station (Orange and Green Lines), both a short walk away.
Parking in the North End is notoriously difficult and limited. It's highly recommended to use public transport or rideshare services. If you must drive, look for garages in the surrounding areas, but expect to pay a premium.
Yes, Copp's Hill Burying Ground is an integral part of Boston's historic Freedom Trail, making it easy to find and incorporate into a walking tour of the city's revolutionary sites.
While the grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours, it's advisable to visit during the day for safety and to fully appreciate the historical markers and views. Visiting after dark is not recommended.
The best way to explore is on foot, taking your time to read the informational plaques and observe the unique headstones. Consider joining a guided Freedom Trail tour for deeper historical context.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Copp's Hill Burying Ground is a public historic site and does not require an admission fee. It is free to enter and explore during its open hours.
The burying ground is typically open daily from dawn until dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or special event closures before your visit.
The terrain within the cemetery can be uneven, with narrow paths and sloped areas. While some parts are accessible, visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate the entire site.
While there aren't official tours specifically for Copp's Hill, it is a stop on many general Freedom Trail tours. You can also find self-guided tour information online or at visitor centers.
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, please be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see historic headstones dating back to the 17th century, including those of notable figures like Cotton Mather and Daniel Malcolm. The site also offers impressive views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring Copp's Hill Burying Ground, depending on their interest in reading the historical markers and enjoying the views.
There are no public restrooms directly within the burying ground. You'll need to find facilities in nearby Faneuil Hall Marketplace or other public areas in the North End.
The bullet holes are said to be from vengeful British soldiers who fired upon the tombstone after Daniel Malcolm, a Patriot and wine merchant, opposed their taxes and actions.
The northern corner, near Snow Hill and Charter Streets, is believed to be the site of an unmarked African American burial ground. Over 1,000 African Americans are interred here, with very few surviving headstones.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photography spots include the historic headstones, the panoramic views of Boston Harbor, and the unique grave of Daniel Malcolm. The golden hour light can also create beautiful shots.
While personal photography is allowed, please be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of other visitors or during any memorial services.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, especially if visiting in the late afternoon. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the city views, while a standard lens is good for headstone details.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in historic cemeteries and urban areas due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to assume drones are not allowed.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers the most flattering light for photography, casting a warm glow on the headstones and cityscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to set expectations beforehand: this is a cemetery, so a respectful demeanor is key. Encourage kids to look for interesting dates or names on the headstones and discuss the lives of the people buried there. The Freedom Trail aspect makes it part of a larger adventure, which can help maintain their interest.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to read the informational plaques scattered throughout the cemetery, which offer detailed insights into the individuals and events associated with the site. Consider researching some of the names you encounter beforehand to enrich your visit. The cemetery's role as a stop on the Freedom Trail further solidifies its historical importance.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the opportunity to capture the stunning views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline, especially during the golden hour for dramatic lighting. The contrast between the old cemetery and the modern city backdrop can create compelling compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Copp's Hill Burying Ground
The cemetery's history is marked by periods of both reverence and neglect. By the 19th century, it had fallen into disrepair, leading to the controversial relocation and consolidation of graves. It's said that many bodies were buried on top of each other, with estimates suggesting up to 10,000 individuals are interred here, despite fewer headstones. This practice, along with the cemetery's strategic location, has contributed to its eerie reputation.
Today, Copp's Hill Burying Ground is a vital stop on the Freedom Trail, offering a tangible connection to Boston's colonial and revolutionary past. Informational plaques throughout the grounds provide context for the lives and deaths of its inhabitants, making it a poignant place for reflection and historical discovery.
Notable Interments and Stories
Another significant figure is Daniel Malcolm, a Patriot, wine merchant, and Son of Liberty. His tombstone is famously marked with bullet holes, a testament to his defiance against British rule. Legend has it that British soldiers, angered by his opposition, fired upon his grave. This unique marker draws considerable attention and serves as a powerful symbol of revolutionary spirit.
The cemetery also holds the unmarked graves of over 1,000 African Americans, a crucial part of Boston's history that is often overlooked. The northern section of the cemetery, near Snow Hill and Charter Streets, is believed to be this burial ground. The lack of visible markers underscores the historical struggle for recognition and remembrance for this community.
Photography and Views
The interplay of old and new—historic headstones against a backdrop of modern architecture and the bustling harbor—creates compelling photographic opportunities. The golden hour light in the late afternoon can cast a warm, ethereal glow on the weathered stones and the cityscape, enhancing the visual appeal.
When photographing, remember to be respectful of the solemn nature of the cemetery. Focus on capturing the historical details of the headstones, the atmospheric quality of the grounds, and the expansive views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit