Stockbridge Cemetery
A historic resting place in Stockbridge, MA, featuring graves of notable figures like Norman Rockwell and Elizabeth Freeman. A peaceful spot for histo...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Stockbridge Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic resting place in Stockbridge, MA, featuring graves of notable figures like Norman Rockwell and Elizabeth Freeman. A peaceful spot for history and art lovers.
"What a cool cemetery! I came for Rockwell's Grave and ended up spending half an hour or more just walking around."
🎯 Find Rockwell's Grave
Head to the lower left corner of the cemetery for Norman Rockwell's final resting place.
📚 Grab a History Guide
Enhance your visit by getting a local history book or guide to identify important figures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Norman Rockwell's Grave
Back of the cemetery
Pay respects to the iconic American illustrator. Look for artistic tributes left by visitors.
Elizabeth Freeman's Grave
Notable gravesites section
Visit the final resting place of the first enslaved African American to win a freedom suit in Massachusetts.
The Sedgwick Pie
Central area
Explore this unique family plot, nicknamed for its distinctive shape and layout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Historic Gravesites
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find Rockwell's Grave
Head to the lower left corner of the cemetery for Norman Rockwell's final resting place.
📚 Grab a History Guide
Enhance your visit by getting a local history book or guide to identify important figures.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! You might discover more than you expect beyond the famous graves.
👻 Halloween Road Trip Stop
Consider this cemetery as a unique stop on a New England Halloween road trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find Rockwell's Grave
Head to the lower left corner of the cemetery for Norman Rockwell's final resting place.
📚 Grab a History Guide
Enhance your visit by getting a local history book or guide to identify important figures.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! You might discover more than you expect beyond the famous graves.
👻 Halloween Road Trip Stop
Consider this cemetery as a unique stop on a New England Halloween road trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stockbridge Cemetery for its rich history and the opportunity to visit the graves of notable figures like Norman Rockwell and Elizabeth Freeman. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to discover unique historical markers beyond the famous residents. Some note its size can be surprising, encouraging longer visits to fully explore.
"Many important figures in Stockbridge history, including missionary John Sergeant and philanthropist David Dudley Field II, are buried here, but the most famous is American illustrator Norman Rockwell. He is buried near the back of the cemetery along with his second wife Mary Rhodes Barstow Rockwell and third wife Mary Leete “Molly” Punderson Rockwell. The town currently maintains this cemetery, while the town library website hosts a well-designed digital map displaying the burial sites of important Stockbridge."
Abigail Epplett
"What a cool cemetery! I came for Rockwell's Grave and ended up spending half an hour or more just walking around. With Graves dating to the late 1700s it's a historical gold mine. Def worth a trip!"
Jay Shifman
"Quite a bit of history in here. We did not realize how large this cemetery was. Grab a book on "Famous Berkshire Residents" in the Red Lion gift shop then head here for some offbeat sight seeing.
Walk all the way in and to the lower left corner to find Norman Rockwell's gravesite."
Wayne Schulz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stockbridge Cemetery is located in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors combine a trip here with a visit to the nearby Red Lion Inn.
Public transport options to Stockbridge can be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for the easiest access to the cemetery and surrounding attractions. Check local bus schedules if relying on public transit.
The cemetery is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes. A digital map is available on the town library website, which can help you locate specific gravesites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Stockbridge Cemetery is a public space and does not have an admission fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
As a cemetery, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during reasonable times to ensure a peaceful experience.
Yes, photography is permitted in Stockbridge Cemetery. It's a popular spot for historical and artistic photography, but always be respectful of the surroundings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most famous graves include those of artist Norman Rockwell, abolitionist Elizabeth Freeman, and the unique 'Sedgwick Pie' family plot. +1
Most visitors spend at least an hour exploring the cemetery, especially if they are interested in history or seeking out specific graves.
Stockbridge Cemetery is a historic burial ground and typically does not have extensive facilities like restrooms or visitor centers. Plan accordingly.
While not its primary focus, Stockbridge Cemetery has been mentioned in the context of Halloween road trips and historical hauntings, adding a layer of intrigue for some visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The gravestones themselves, especially older ones with unique inscriptions, offer great photographic opportunities. The 'Sedgwick Pie' and the tributes at Norman Rockwell's grave are also popular subjects. 
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. However, commercial photography may require permission. Always be mindful and respectful.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expanse of the cemetery, and a macro lens can highlight intricate details on gravestones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for interesting dates or names on the gravestones. Remember to emphasize the importance of respectful behavior in a cemetery setting. Consider bringing a small notebook for them to sketch interesting stones or write down what they learn.🎨 Art and History Enthusiasts
Beyond Rockwell, the cemetery is rich with the history of influential figures like Elizabeth Freeman, a pivotal character in the fight against slavery in Massachusetts. Take your time to explore the Sedgwick Pie and other family plots to understand the historical fabric of the region.👻 Curious Explorers & Halloween Fans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Notable Figures and Their Stories
+1 His presence makes the cemetery a pilgrimage site for art enthusiasts.Another significant individual interred here is Elizabeth Freeman, also known as Mum Bett. She was the first enslaved African American in Massachusetts to file and win a freedom suit, a landmark case that contributed to the abolition of slavery in the state. Her grave serves as a powerful reminder of the struggle for freedom and equality.
The Sedgwick family also has a prominent presence, with their burial plot known as the 'Sedgwick Pie' due to its distinctive circular layout. Patriarch Theodore Sedgwick was a prominent lawyer and statesman. Exploring these graves offers a tangible connection to the past and the individuals who made their mark on history.
Exploring the 'Sedgwick Pie'
It's a fascinating example of historical burial customs and family legacy.Visitors often find the 'Sedgwick Pie' to be a point of curiosity and a memorable part of their cemetery exploration. The layout itself tells a story of family structure and historical practices. It’s a spot that sparks conversation and offers a different perspective on cemetery design and tradition.
Historical Significance and Preservation
The cemetery's historical value is recognized by its inclusion in local historical narratives and its role as a destination for those interested in genealogy and American history. The presence of figures like Norman Rockwell and Elizabeth Freeman elevates its importance beyond a typical local cemetery, drawing visitors interested in art, social justice, and regional heritage.
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