Old Settlers' Cemetery
Charlotte's first municipal burial ground, established in 1776, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the formerly enslaved.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Old Settlers' Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charlotte's first municipal burial ground, established in 1776, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the formerly enslaved.
"A quiet and fascinating slice of history tucked into the heart of uptown Charlotte."
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
This is a historic burial ground. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
📜 Learn the History
Read the informational placards to understand the cemetery's significance and the lives of early Charlotte residents.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pioneer Headstones
Throughout the cemetery
See headstones dating back to the 1700s, honoring Charlotte's earliest settlers and notable figures.
Unmarked Graves Section
North quadrant near Church Street
A poignant area dedicated to the formerly enslaved, whose graves remain without markers.
Monuments: Charlotte's Descendant
Installation site
An art exhibit by Craig Walsh honoring formerly enslaved citizens and free people.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Unmarked Graves & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
This is a historic burial ground. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
📜 Learn the History
Read the informational placards to understand the cemetery's significance and the lives of early Charlotte residents.
🐶 Leash Your Dog
If you bring your dog, keep them on a leash and clean up after them. It's a public park space.
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the 'Monuments: Charlotte's Descendant' art installation, a powerful tribute.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
This is a historic burial ground. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
📜 Learn the History
Read the informational placards to understand the cemetery's significance and the lives of early Charlotte residents.
🐶 Leash Your Dog
If you bring your dog, keep them on a leash and clean up after them. It's a public park space.
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the 'Monuments: Charlotte's Descendant' art installation, a powerful tribute.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Old Settlers' Cemetery a fascinating and peaceful slice of Charlotte's history, appreciating the old headstones and the art installation. However, some note the lack of acknowledgment for Indigenous peoples and the historical erasure of certain communities.
"Small park and cemetery in DT Charlotte. We needed to walk off our meal before going to a concert later that evening. While it's a nice park and cool to see some early history of the city/area, it's very one sided. Big placards only mention Europeans as the 1st settlers of the area and list names, but absolutely no mention of the Catawba Indians who were actually there first and fought in support of said colonists. But I guess you can ignore that and enjoy walking your dog through the mausoleums."
Malcolm Earhart
"A quiet and fascinating slice of history tucked into the heart of uptown Charlotte. Old Settlers’ Cemetery is a cool spot to walk through if you enjoy history, architecture, or just a peaceful break from the city noise. The headstones date back to the 1700s, and you can feel the weight of time as you stroll past the graves of early Charlotte pioneers, war veterans, and local figures.
It’s well-maintained and not overly crowded, making it easy to explore and take in the historic atmosphere. Great spot for a thoughtful walk or a quick detour if you’re already downtown. Definitely worth a stop if you like places with character and a story."
Nicholas French
"I've read several posts of this cemetery. I'm shocked to read comments about its current state. What 200years have passed, and they think the families are still around to care for the site. It's sad to know that settlers often used Indian burial grounds to bury their dead and there is no mention of this in many cemeteries throughout the country. The city grew up around this site and serves a purpose today as a green space. Pay homage to the dead. Have a picnic in this green space, and walk your dog. Watch your dog chase squirrels in this green space and enjoy the moment that there are green grass, old shade trees, and sun shining in this thriving metropolis that the forefathers would be amazed."
Carlos DeJesus
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Settlers' Cemetery is located in Uptown Charlotte, easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot if you're already in the downtown area. Parking may be limited in Uptown, so consider ride-sharing or public transit.
Yes, it's in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, making it a convenient stop before or after visiting other downtown landmarks, concerts, or dining.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Settlers' Cemetery is a public park and historic site, so there are no admission fees. You can visit anytime.
As a public park, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's a cemetery, so respectful visiting hours are implied.
While technically open, visiting a cemetery at night is generally discouraged due to safety and respect for the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see historic headstones dating back to the 1700s, learn about Charlotte's early pioneers, and view the 'Monuments: Charlotte's Descendant' art installation.
While there aren't typically formal guided tours, the informational placards provide historical context. You can also find information online about the cemetery's history.
The cemetery is a historic site with uneven terrain in some areas. Paved paths may be limited, so check accessibility if needed.
Yes, photography is allowed, but please be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. The art installation is particularly photogenic.
The north quadrant is dedicated to formerly enslaved individuals who contributed to Charlotte's early history. Their graves are unmarked, highlighting a significant part of the city's past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, being in Uptown Charlotte, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries within walking distance of the cemetery.
While it's a public park, it's primarily a cemetery. Picnics are generally discouraged to maintain a respectful atmosphere, though some visitors have enjoyed quiet moments.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic headstones, the 'Monuments: Charlotte's Descendant' art installation, and the mature trees offer great photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and historic sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it is a cemetery, so encourage children to be respectful and quiet. While it's a green space, it's best to avoid running or playing loudly. Consider it a brief, thoughtful detour rather than a playground. Ensure dogs are leashed if you bring them along.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay special attention to the north quadrant, which honors the formerly enslaved members of the community. The 'Monuments: Charlotte's Descendant' art installation offers a contemporary perspective on this vital history.
+1 Researching specific individuals buried here beforehand can enhance your visit and deepen your understanding of Charlotte's complex past.🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
Take your time to wander through the grounds, read the historical markers, and reflect on the lives of those who came before. It's a great place for contemplation and photography, especially during the golden hour. The art installation adds another layer of interest to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Charlotte's Past
It's important to note the cemetery's dual history. While many graves are marked with stones, a significant portion, particularly in the north quadrant, belongs to formerly enslaved individuals whose final resting places remain unmarked. This aspect highlights a crucial, often overlooked, part of Charlotte's foundational narrative. The presence of the 'Monuments: Charlotte's Descendant' art installation by Craig Walsh further emphasizes this, paying tribute to these often-unseen lives.
+1Despite its historical significance, the cemetery has faced challenges over time, including damage from natural events like hurricanes.
Navigating the Historic Grounds
While the cemetery is open to the public, it's crucial to remember its primary purpose as a burial ground. Visitors are encouraged to walk respectfully, avoid loud noises, and stay on designated paths to prevent damage to the historic graves. Some headstones are fragile and may be disheveled due to age and the elements, and it's important not to disturb them further.
The cemetery is also a public park, allowing for activities like walking dogs (on leash) and enjoying the green space. However, the emphasis remains on respecting the resting place of those interred there. The blend of historical significance and public use makes it a unique spot in Uptown Charlotte.
Social
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