17. Art & History are Alive in the Cemetery: DC's Oldest Burial Ground

Art & History are Alive in the Cemetery: A Wandering Tour of DC's Oldest Burial Ground.

Tour description:

Historic Rock Creek Cemetery was established around 1726 and is one of the oldest cemeteries in the Mid-Atlantic region. The churchyard has a history dating to almost 75 years before the District of Columbia was established. Join this tour to wander through portions of this 86-acre Nationally Registered Landmark known for its beautiful parklike settings and magnificent pieces of funerary sculpture, including the famous Augustus Saint-Gaudens Adams Memorial, nicknamed "Grief". We will also talk about famous - and infamous - luminaries buried here who helped to shape not only DC, but very nation itself. Art and History are truly alive in the Cemetery!

Tour Guide: Donald Harrell; Former DC resident and content contributor to this cemetery tour

Ward: 4

TOUR INFORMATION:

Tour Starting Location:

St. Paul's Church Rock Creek Parish

Corner of Webster St. NW and Rock Creek Church Rd. NW, Washington, DC 20011

Meet at the Gatehouse found at the Main Gate of the Cemetery

NOTE IF DRIVING: GPS may try to take you to Allison Street, NW which is on the wrong side of the cemetery.

· Closest Metro or Bus Line: D74 Bus - Rock Creek Church Rd and Varnum St. NW. Walk up the hill about 2 blocks to the Main Gate.

· Tour Ending Location: Main Gate of Cemetery - Rock Creek Church Rd. NW and Webster St. NW

· Tour Length: 2 hours

· Tour Distance: 1.3 miles

· Fitness Level: Moderate level (brisk walking, uneven terrain)

· Audio Enhancer: No

· ASL: No

· Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

· Stroller Accessible: Yes

Host or Publisher Events DC