Locust Hill Cemetery
A historic cemetery, resting place of WWI's first American casualty, and a hub for African American history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Locust Hill Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cemetery, resting place of WWI's first American casualty, and a hub for African American history.
"A nice cemetery with great history both locally and nationally."
Honor the Fallen
Pay respects at James Bethel Gresham's grave, the first American casualty of WWI. :pray:
Explore the Museum
Don't miss the Locust Hill Cemetery Museum, focusing on African American history. :museum:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
James Bethel Gresham's Grave
Locust Hill Cemetery
Visit the final resting place of the first American soldier to die in WWI, a poignant historical marker.
African American History Focus
Locust Hill Cemetery Museum
Discover the museum dedicated to African American history within the cemetery grounds.
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Planning Your Visit
Uncover Rich History
Beyond the Graves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Honor the Fallen
Pay respects at James Bethel Gresham's grave, the first American casualty of WWI. :pray:
Explore the Museum
Don't miss the Locust Hill Cemetery Museum, focusing on African American history. :museum:
Respectful Visit
Remember this is a place of rest; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. :person_walking:
Check for Events
Look for special events or tours that might offer deeper historical insights. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Honor the Fallen
Pay respects at James Bethel Gresham's grave, the first American casualty of WWI. :pray:
Explore the Museum
Don't miss the Locust Hill Cemetery Museum, focusing on African American history. :museum:
Respectful Visit
Remember this is a place of rest; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. :person_walking:
Check for Events
Look for special events or tours that might offer deeper historical insights. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Locust Hill Cemetery is recognized for its significant historical connections, particularly as the burial site of WWI's first American casualty, James Bethel Gresham. Visitors appreciate the historical depth and the presence of the African American history museum. However, some question its arboretum status due to limited tree diversity.
"A nice cemetery with great history both locally and nationally. James Bethel Gresham is 1 of 3 to be considered the first American to die in WWI. I took a framed photo from the Evansville Wartime Museum to Merle Hay's grave in Glidden, Iowa, Thomas Enright's grave in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and finally Gresham's grave here. All 3 have markers commemorating them but Locust Hill has a lot more than the others so definitely take the visit to the cemetery."
Jordan Baer
"This is a nice cemetery in the north side of town that actually contains the burial site of the first American to die in world war I. It was a young man from Evansville who had the unfortunate distinction of being the first American to die in the Great war and subsequently buried at the locust Hill cemetery in Evansville. This memorial site is where the flag flies in the cemetery."
Trent Dirks
"Nice enough but how is this considered an arboretum? There's barely any trees and definitely not more trees than any other cemetery."
Megan McAllister
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Locust Hill Cemetery is located in Evansville, Indiana. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options may be available. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is typically parking available within the cemetery grounds for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Locust Hill Cemetery is generally free to enter, as it is a public cemetery. The museum may have separate admission details.
Cemetery hours can vary, but they are typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for specific hours of operation.
Yes, the Locust Hill Cemetery Museum is a key attraction. Information on its operating hours and any associated fees should be confirmed beforehand.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Locust Hill Cemetery is historically significant as the burial site of James Bethel Gresham, the first American to die in World War I. It also holds importance for African American history.
Information on guided tours may be limited. It's best to inquire directly with cemetery management or local historical societies about potential tour offerings.
Some visitors have questioned its arboretum status, noting a lack of extensive tree diversity compared to other cemeteries.
A self-guided walk is common. Take your time to read headstones and appreciate the historical markers, especially around Gresham's grave.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography of private memorials.
The memorial for James Bethel Gresham, with the flying flag, is a prominent spot. The historical markers and the cemetery's architecture also offer photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🤔 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of James Bethel Gresham
The significance of Gresham's death was widely recognized, and his burial at Locust Hill cemented the cemetery's place in national historical narratives. Travelers interested in WWI history often seek out his grave as a key point of interest when visiting the area.
African American History and the Museum
Exploring the cemetery grounds can also reveal the stories of African American families and individuals who are interred there. It offers a space for reflection on the broader historical tapestry of the area, encompassing diverse narratives and legacies.
Visitor Experience and Perceptions
For those with family buried there, it holds deep personal meaning.
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