Cedar Grove Cemetery | New Bern

Cedar Grove Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in New Bern, North Carolina. It serves as a significant repository of local history and funerary art.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery features a mix of granite and marble headstones, obelisks, and mausoleums. Many stones exhibit Victorian-era design elements. The grounds are characterized by mature oak trees providing canopy cover. Paths are primarily gravel and asphalt.

Location & Access Logistics

Cedar Grove Cemetery is situated at 1401 Old Cherry Point Road, approximately 2.5 kilometers south of New Bern's central business district. Access is via US-70 East, turning onto Old Cherry Point Road. Ample on-site parking is available within designated areas. The closest public transport stop is served by the New Bern Area Transit System, Route 2 (Southside), approximately 0.8 kilometers from the main entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1855, Cedar Grove Cemetery was designed by architect William J. Hawkins. Its original purpose was to consolidate burials from older, smaller churchyards and provide a dedicated public cemetery for the growing city. The site is situated on relatively flat terrain, historically part of the coastal plain ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the evolution of funerary art from the mid-19th century to the present. Specific points of interest include the Confederate soldiers' plot and the graves of notable New Bern families. Walking the grounds allows for examination of diverse stone carving techniques and epitaphs. Photography of headstones and mausoleums is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main office building. Limited shaded areas are provided by mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent throughout the cemetery. No on-site food vendors are present; nearest options are located in downtown New Bern.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning (08:00-10:00) or late afternoon (16:00-18:00) is recommended. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most temperate weather conditions. No tide-dependent access requirements exist.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the "Weeping Angel" statue, a popular subject for local folklore, with some stories attributing unusual occurrences to its presence. The cemetery also contains the graves of individuals who served in various conflicts, including the Civil War and World War I.

Nearby Landmarks

• Tryon Palace Historic Sites & Gardens (1.8km North)
• New Bern Firemen's Museum (2.1km North)
• Historic Downtown New Bern (2.5km North)
• Christ Church (2.3km North)
• North Carolina History Center (1.9km North)