First Burial Ground in Woburn, Massachusetts

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Get directions Park Street
Woburn, Massachusetts, 01801 USA

Coordinates: 42.48130, -71.15226
781-937-8297
Cemetery ID: 1967580

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The first burying ground in Woburn, this 1.4 acre cemetery was in active use from 1642 to 1794 (although the latest death date is 1856). The cemetery exhibits typical carvings of the 17th and 18th century and contains stones attributed to Joseph Lamson, a carver known as the "Charlestown Carver." The cemetery also exhibits characteristics typical to 17th and 18th century burying grounds such as haphazardly placed headstones. It is also the burial place of many of Woburns notable citizens.

While an 1890 survey found 270 gravestones, there are probably no more than 150 remaining. As was typical in burial grounds of this period, gravestones are arranged randomly, oriented in all directions and are concentrated in certain areas.

The First Burial Ground remained in active use until 1794 when it was replaced by the Second Burial Ground, which was active from 1794 to 1845. Since 1845 the Woodbrook Cemetery has been the primary municipal burying ground.

This cemetery sits on 1.4 acres. There are approximately 150 headstones. The earliest death date in c1642, the latest 1856.

The Massachusetts Historical Commission refers to this cemetery in MACRIS as WOB.800 Park Street Burial Ground.

The First Burial Ground of Woburn is located on Park Street, behind the Baptist Church, on the town common. To make arrangements for the gate to be unlocked call the Woburn Cemetery Commission during business hours, Monday through Friday, from 9 to 5. The number is 781 937 8297. There are no weekend hours.