'Turnback Tuesday' features Uptown Burying Ground in Derby

Turnback Tuesday remembers the Olde Derby Uptown Burial Ground, a.k.a the Colonial Cemetery. 

This cemetery is located on Derby Avenue, Derby. The oldest stone is that of the Rev. John Bowers who died 6-14-1687, although his first recorded death was in 1675.

George Beaman was elected the first grave digger in 1863. It is said that he would receive two shillings for a child’s grave and two shillings and a sixpence for an adult’s grave. 

George was among the second group of settlers to receive a grant of land in Derby in 1675. It is claimed that this cemetery is the oldest public cemetery in the US.

Thanks goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.