Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

Activity Overview

Not to be confused with the slightly older Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in New York which itself is home to some famous figures, the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery of Concord, Massachusetts is worth a visit particularly if you are a literary buff. This is the final resting place of literary giants like Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry Thoreau and Louisa May Alcott. There are more than 10,000 graves in total at the sight which was first opened in 1855 and it has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Things to Do

• The first stop for most visitors will be "Author's Ridge" where the famous writers which are the cemetery's main attraction are buried. Once you enter the site there will be plenty of signs pointing you in the direction of the Ridge.
• Each author is buried quite modestly in a family plot. They can take a little it of finding in amongst their relatives but once you encounter the grave it can provide a very touching moment, especially if you are a fan of the writer's work.
• Another point of interest within the Cemetery is the sculpture "Mourning Victory". Standing at the center of the cemetery this sculpture was commissioned by James Melvin to commemorate his three brothers whose lives were lost during the Civil War. Often referred to simply as the Melvin Memorial this sculpture was designed by Daniel Chester French who also designed other prominent Civil War era monuments such as the Lincoln Statue in Washington DC and the Minutemen statue at North Bridge.

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Insider Tips

• You can find a useful list of the important figures buried at Concord's Sleepy Hollow Cemetery with a short description of what made them famous online.
• If you don't have an interest in author's ridge this can still make a pleasant stop off point if you are in Concord. The grounds are beautiful and the Cemetery can provide a quiet place which is perfect for peaceful contemplation.