Some of the Revolutionary War’s most famous figures are buried in the Granary Burying Ground, one of Boston’s oldest cemeteries. First built in 1660, it eventually held 5,000 bodies, though only 2,300 headstones remain today. Some of Boston’s most famous historic icons are here, from John Hancock, Samuel Adams and Robert Treat Paine to Paul Revere and even Benjamin Franklin’s family. Visit the Granary Burying Ground to see the graves of these eminent individuals and observe the achievements in Puritan funerary art with its iconic symbols.
Walk down Tremont Street to the impressive Egyptian Revival gates, designed by Isaiah Rogers in the 19th century. Spot the Franklin Monument, marking the graves of the famous polymath’s family. Franklin himself is buried in his adopted home of Philadelphia. Turn left to the grave of James Otis, credited with the writing of the line, “Taxation without representation is tyranny.” Nearby is the monument to John Hancock, as outsized as his signature.
Continue following the well-maintained path to Paul Revere’s marker on a 19th-century pedestal next to his smaller, original gravestone. Watch for a lesser-known signer of the Declaration of Independence, Robert Treat Paine, whose grave stands next to the brick wall.
Before heading back out into the city, pause at the grave for Samuel Adams, a Revolutionary leader unrelated to the beer that today bears his name. Nearby is a monument to the victims of the Boston Massacre that took place only a few streets from here.
The Granary Burying Ground is a few steps from Boston Common, in the heart of downtown Boston. Several train lines travel to the area, making cemetery access extremely easy from anywhere in Greater Boston. Walk from Faneuil Hall in 11 minutes or drive in 4 minutes. Parking is hard to find in the area, but there are a few structures in the immediate vicinity where you can pay to park. Public transportation is generally the easiest option.
The cemetery is open daily year round during regular business hours. There is no admission fee.
