Prince’s Hill Cemetery | Barrington

Prince’s Hill Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in Barrington, Rhode Island. It serves as the final resting place for many of the town's early settlers and prominent families.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery is characterized by a mix of granite and marble headstones, many of which exhibit weathering and erosion. The terrain is gently sloping, with mature deciduous trees providing canopy cover. Gravestones vary in size and design, from simple markers to elaborate obelisks and mausoleums. The primary color palette consists of grey stone, green vegetation, and brown earth.

Location & Access Logistics

Prince’s Hill Cemetery is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers east of Barrington town center. Access is via County Road, which connects directly to Main Street. Parking is available on-site along designated gravel paths within the cemetery grounds. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop for the RIPTA Route 60 is located 1 kilometer west on Main Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1718, Prince’s Hill Cemetery is one of the oldest continuously used burial grounds in Rhode Island. Its origin is tied to the early Puritan settlement of Barrington. The site is situated on glacial till, a common soil type in the region, supporting a temperate deciduous forest ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe historical grave markers dating back to the 18th century. The site is suitable for quiet contemplation and historical research. Walking the grounds allows for examination of funerary art and inscriptions. No organized tours are offered.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available on-site. Limited shade is provided by the tree canopy. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent within the cemetery. No food vendors are located within the cemetery; the nearest amenities are in Barrington town center.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography of gravestones, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The months of May through October offer the most pleasant weather conditions for visiting. No tide considerations are applicable.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the grave of Captain John Prince, a prominent figure in early Barrington history, whose family name is associated with the hill. Local lore suggests that certain older stones bear inscriptions that are difficult to decipher due to age and weathering, requiring close inspection.

Nearby Landmarks

• Barrington Public Library (0.8km West)
• Barrington Heritage Museum (1.2km West)
• Rosemary Park (1.5km Southwest)
• Bristol County Agricultural High School (3.0km Southeast)