Burial Hill facts for kids
Burial Hill is a very old cemetery located in Plymouth, Massachusetts. It started in the 1620s, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States. Many of the first English settlers who arrived on the Mayflower ship are buried here. This includes important leaders like William Bradford, who was a governor of Plymouth Colony, and William Brewster, a respected elder of the community.
This historic hill is not just a burial ground; it's also a place where you can learn a lot about the early days of America. It offers amazing views of Plymouth Harbor and the town below.
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What is Burial Hill?
Burial Hill is a large hill in Plymouth, Massachusetts, that has been used as a cemetery since the first European settlers arrived in 1620. It's a special place because it holds the graves of many people who helped start the Plymouth Colony. The hill itself was also important to the early settlers because it was a good lookout point, helping them spot any approaching ships or dangers.
Why is Burial Hill Important?
Burial Hill is incredibly important for several reasons:
- Early History: It's one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States, with graves dating back to the 1620s. This means it tells the story of the very first European settlers in New England.
- Mayflower Passengers: Many of the original passengers from the Mayflower ship are buried here. These were the people who founded Plymouth Colony.
- Historical Records: The gravestones on Burial Hill are like old history books. They show names, dates, and sometimes even small messages that give us clues about the lives of people from centuries ago.
- National Landmark: Because of its deep historical significance, Burial Hill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Who is Buried on Burial Hill?
Many famous and important people from Plymouth's early history are buried on Burial Hill.
- William Bradford: He was the second governor of Plymouth Colony and served for over 30 years. His journal, called "Of Plimoth Plantation," is one of the most important records of the Pilgrims' lives.
- William Brewster: He was a respected elder and spiritual leader of the Plymouth Colony. He helped guide the community in its early, difficult years.
- Other Early Settlers: You'll find the graves of many other early colonists, including some who arrived on the Mayflower and their descendants. Their gravestones show how the colony grew and changed over time.
Exploring Burial Hill Today
When you visit Burial Hill today, you can walk among the ancient gravestones and imagine what life was like for the early settlers.
- Old Gravestones: Many of the oldest gravestones are made of slate or granite and have unique carvings. Some are so old that the words are hard to read, but they offer a glimpse into the past.
- Historic Markers: There are signs and markers that explain the history of the hill and point out important graves.
- Beautiful Views: From the top of Burial Hill, you can see a wide view of Plymouth Harbor, the town, and even Plymouth Rock, where the Pilgrims are believed to have first landed. It's a great spot for taking photos and reflecting on history.
Visiting Burial Hill is like taking a step back in time. It helps us remember the challenges and triumphs of the people who helped shape early American history.
Images for kids
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Burial Hill. ca.1890
See also
In Spanish: Burial Hill para niños
