Parsons Cemetery welcomes all visitors.

Parsons Cemetery, like many other historic urban cemeteries, serves many purposes today: as a working cemetery; and, as a green space within the City used by joggers, walkers, strollers, and as a respite for those seeking a quiet moment alone with their thoughts.

Parsons Cemetery reflects mid-19th century thinking.  In 1831, Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story introduced the notion of “the cemetery as an outdoor school of history and philosophy.”  And, it followed the 1850’s trend toward moving cemeteries from overcrowded church grave yards to beautiful and peaceful garden cemeteries.  Parsons Cemetery reflects these sentiments and finds them relevant in the 21st century.  Families, students, and professional researchers study the history recorded on the gravestones and monuments, while those who enjoy the gardens, trees, shrubs, and open green spaces can be found enjoying the cemetery grounds.  And of course, there are those that enjoy the birds and wildlife along the Johnson’s Pond waterfront.  Bird watchers enjoy the osprey and Bald Eagles, along with beautiful herons and egrets, stalking their favorite prey, often right alongside the colorful fisherman plying the river.

Hours:

The Cemetery is open daily from 9 am until sunset. The Cemetery Office is open by appointment.

Cemetery Information:  A historical pamphlet is available at the Cemetery Office. The Cemetery Office is open daily but with differing hours.  Visitors seeking assistance or information are encouraged to communicate with the Cemetery Manager electronically or make an appointment.

Suggestions for visiting:

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Take a stroll down the waterfront and “Parsons Memorial Walkway”.
  • Enjoy the views of the 104-acre Johnsons Pond, originally a colonial millpond.
  • Restroom facilities are only available when the Cemetery Office is open. Parsons Cemetery is just blocks away from Rt 13 and many commercial businesses serving the public, including restrooms..

Etiquette: 

Parsons Cemetery is an operational cemetery and visitors should expect to encounter funeral ceremonies in progress.  It is also a place for families to mourn and visit their loved ones.  Please be respectful of those around you.

Parsons Cemetery is a garden-type cemetery.  Please help us maintain its beauty and dignity by observing the following rules of etiquette:

  • Parking is permitted along the sides of all roadways, or as otherwise directed during special events
  • Please drive carefully.  Speeds should not exceed 15 mph
  • Children should be under the direct supervision of responsible adults
  • Running, playing, and noisy activities are not appropriate
  • Leash laws are enforced, and owners are asked to be prepared to clean up after their dog(s)
  • Trash barrels are located throughout Cemetery, please do not litter.

DUE TO THE AGE OF GRAVESTONES, TOPPLING IS A POSSIBLE HAZARD, WE ASK THAT YOU PLEASE NOT TOUCH, CLIMB, OR LEAN ON GRAVESTONES OTHER THAN A BENCH PROVIDED FOR THIS PURPOSE.