Mountain Grove Cemetery
A historic Victorian cemetery in Bridgeport, CT, home to the graves of P.T. Barnum, Tom Thumb, and Medal of Honor recipients.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Mountain Grove Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Victorian cemetery in Bridgeport, CT, home to the graves of P.T. Barnum, Tom Thumb, and Medal of Honor recipients.
"Beautiful cemetery that every taphophile should visit."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the historic graves. :athletic_shoe:
Use Online Grave Finders
Utilize 'Find a Grave' to locate specific individuals before your visit. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
P.T. Barnum's Monument
Main Mausoleum Area
The grand tomb of the legendary circus showman, a testament to his flamboyant legacy.
Tom Thumb's Resting Place
Near Barnum's Monument
A unique and fitting memorial for the famous showman Charles Stratton, known as Tom Thumb.
Medal of Honor Recipients
Various Sections
Honor the bravery of fallen soldiers with memorials to distinguished Medal of Honor recipients.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Discovering Notable Graves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the historic graves. :athletic_shoe:
Use Online Grave Finders
Utilize 'Find a Grave' to locate specific individuals before your visit. :iphone:
Be Respectful
This is a place of remembrance. Please be quiet and mindful of others. :pray:
Explore Beyond Barnum
Discover Medal of Honor recipients and other historical figures. :compass:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the historic graves. :athletic_shoe:
Use Online Grave Finders
Utilize 'Find a Grave' to locate specific individuals before your visit. :iphone:
Be Respectful
This is a place of remembrance. Please be quiet and mindful of others. :pray:
Explore Beyond Barnum
Discover Medal of Honor recipients and other historical figures. :compass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mountain Grove Cemetery is widely praised for its historical significance, particularly as the final resting place of P.T. Barnum and Tom Thumb. Visitors appreciate the impressive monuments, the opportunity to discover Medal of Honor recipients, and the helpfulness of the cemetery staff. While it's a place of remembrance, its beauty and historical depth make it a recommended stop for those interested in local history and impressive gravestones.
"Beautiful large Cemetery in Bridgeport. Contains the graves of PT Barnum and Tom Thumb. Recommend checking out if you are in the area, please be respectful of the grounds and everyone there."
The Rev
"WOW! Awesome office staff. Passing thru on my way back to Orlando. I could not find grave site monunent for my great grandfather and family. They did the research and drove me out to site to be sure I found it!!! ... They are all so wonderful I am "dying" to go back!"
David Hedberg
"Of course PT Barnum and Tom thumb Is here
BUT
Medal Of Honor recipients too and a Major Frye all the way at the end who was killed at Bunker Hill"
bizzy izzy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mountain Grove Cemetery is located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It's accessible by car via major highways. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the cemetery. Check local transit schedules if you plan to use public transport.
Yes, there is typically parking available within the cemetery grounds. However, during peak visiting times or special events, parking might be more limited. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mountain Grove Cemetery is generally open to the public without an admission fee. It functions as a historic resting place, and visitors are welcome to explore its grounds respectfully.
The cemetery is typically open daily during daylight hours. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on access times.
Generally, cemeteries are closed to the public after dark for safety and security reasons. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the monuments and grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mountain Grove Cemetery is famous for being the final resting place of P.T. Barnum and Tom Thumb. It also features the graves of several Medal of Honor recipients and other notable historical figures, making it a site rich in history and impressive monuments.
Yes, Mountain Grove Cemetery offers many opportunities for photography, especially for those interested in historical monuments, unique gravestones, and landscape shots. The architecture of the mausoleums and the mature trees add to its visual appeal.
Yes, you can find specific graves. Many visitors use online resources like 'Find a Grave' to locate individuals before their visit. The cemetery office staff have also been noted for their helpfulness in assisting visitors find family plots.
While official guided tours may not always be available, the rich history of the cemetery makes it a fascinating place to explore independently. You can often find historical information online or through local historical societies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities within Mountain Grove Cemetery itself. Visitors are advised to eat before or after their visit. There are various restaurants and cafes in the surrounding Bridgeport area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to set expectations with children beforehand about the cemetery being a place of respect and remembrance. Encourage them to be quiet and mindful of others. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and bringing water and snacks is advisable as there are no facilities on-site. Consider using online resources to find interesting graves beforehand to keep younger visitors engaged.
🏛️ History Buffs & Genealogy Enthusiasts
Utilizing resources like 'Find a Grave' before your visit is highly recommended to plan your exploration and locate specific individuals of interest. The cemetery's own records and the helpfulness of its staff can further enrich your research experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Historical Significance and Notable Burials
The most famous residents are undoubtedly P.T. Barnum, the legendary showman and circus impresario, and Charles Stratton, better known as Tom Thumb, a performer in Barnum's shows. Their elaborate tombs are significant landmarks within the cemetery and draw many visitors. Beyond these iconic figures, Mountain Grove Cemetery is also the final resting place for numerous Medal of Honor recipients, honoring their military service and sacrifice. Additionally, you can find the graves of other historical figures, such as Major Frye, who fought in the Revolutionary War, offering a glimpse into the area's deep historical roots.
Exploring Mountain Grove Cemetery is like walking through a living history book. Each monument tells a story, from the grand mausoleums of wealthy industrialists to the simpler headstones of everyday citizens. The cemetery's office staff are known for their exceptional helpfulness, even assisting visitors in locating specific grave sites, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the stories of those buried there.
Exploring the Grounds and Photography
For photographers, Mountain Grove Cemetery presents a unique canvas. The interplay of light and shadow among the trees, the intricate details of the sculptures, and the sheer scale of some of the monuments provide endless opportunities for striking images. Whether you're drawn to the grandeur of the Barnum mausoleum or the poignant simplicity of older headstones, the cemetery offers a rich visual experience. It's recommended to visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting, though any time during daylight hours will offer beautiful scenes.
When visiting, remember that this is a place of quiet reflection. While photography is welcomed, it's important to be mindful of any ongoing services or visitors paying their respects. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely spend a considerable amount of time traversing the hilly terrain and exploring different sections of this historic burial ground.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit