Mount Hope Cemetery is a hidden gem!…read more
It is hidden because it's off the beaten path as far as the city of Boston is concerned. It's not really a place you seek out to visit like Forest Hills Cemetery; rather, it is a place you become acquainted with probably because you live near or pass by.
Mount Hope Cemetery is tucked in between Roslindale and Mattapan, I think it actually creates part of the line between the two neighborhoods and to be honest, I'm not sure which it is "technically" located in. Together with Mount Calvary Cemetery (it's neighbor) it creates the quaint pocket neighborhood of Mount Hope-Canterbury Street that I call home.
I have to say, I was a little creeped out living so close to not one, but TWO cemeteries when we first bought our house, but now, I cherish these large, open plots of peaceful greenery!
The cemetery is very old, according to the city's website, it opened in 1852. It is over 125 acres which is quite large, considering the entire Boston Common is only 50! The cemetery is a mixture of open green space, with grassy fields and water features along with densely grown and developed (with stones and memorials) areas. While you might feel odd walking amongst the dead, the headstones themselves are actually quite attractive, as the majority of them are between 100 and 200 years old and there are many monument-type pieces worked in that really lend to a beautiful space.
With paved drives and pathways all throughout, the cemetery makes for an excellent place to take a stroll, walk the dogs or fit in a short run.
Insider tip: There is a break in the fence at two different spots - one at the very rear of the cemetery (on Mount Calvary Road) where it meets Mt. Calvary Cemetery and another towards the front, along Paine Street. If it is after hours (after 6:30-7:30 pm) and you find yourself needing access in or out of the cemetery, these breaks are a lifesaver! Although I wouldn't personally be going through in the dark...tried it once and swear I saw a huge shadow where I know there isn't anything normally. I ran out with my dog, heart racing, squealing like a little girl.
This is my go-to spot for dog walks, and the park is dog-friendly (as long as they are leashed and properly cleaned up after). I also begin all of my runs here, as cutting across the cemetery allows me to easily connect to Walk Hill Street and then to Forest Hills Cemetery and/or the Arnold Arboretum without having to deal with too much cars, exhaust and traffic on American Legion Highway or Hyde Park Avenue.
One thing - no trash cans anywhere. So be prepared to carry out whatever you choose to carry in.
I will continue to enjoy Mt. Hope for all it has to offer, and pray that the zombie apocalypse never happens - or I'm totally screwed.