Rich history of Bell Rock Cemetery evoked on a walking tour

Special to The Advocate

Residents learned about the Historic Bell Rock Cemetery last weekend on a tour led by local historian and Malden Historical Society Board member Mark Linehan. Participants were given the opportunity to explore one of Malden’s oldest burial grounds while learning about our fascinating past.

Located at 60 Medford St. and one of Malden’s most significant historical landmarks, Bell Rock Cemetery dates back to Malden’s establishment in 1649 and is the final resting place of many of Malden’s early settlers and prominent figures. As one of the oldest burying grounds in the country, Bell Rock Cemetery serves as a window into the rich history of the city and its role in early Massachusetts, and as one of the highest concentrations of 17^th-century headstones of any burying ground in the country.

Residents visited the graves of Revolutionary War soldiers — highlighting Malden’s contribution to American independence — and learned about notable residents and early community leaders who once called Malden home. Mark provided insights into 17^th– and 18^th-century burial practices and customs along with architectural and artistic features of the historic gravestones and monuments. Sadly, many of the gravestones have been damaged and have disappeared over the years.

There are two more chances this month to take a walking tour with Mark in Bell Rock Cemetery: Saturday, October 18, from 10-11:30 a.m., and Sunday, October 19, from 1-2:30 p.m. The tours are free thanks to the Malden Historical Society and a Malden Community Connections Grant from the City of Malden. No advance registration is required, but the tour is not recommended for persons younger than 10. For more information, please email li**********@***il.com.