Rhode Island Historical Cemeteries

Preserving Rhode Island's historic burial places

Welcome

Rhode Island's historic cemeteries tell the story of the people, communities and landscapes that shaped the state.

There is a permanent advisory commission to study the location, condition and inventory of historical cemeteries in Rhode Island and to make recommendations to the General Assembly concerning their preservation.

Rhode Island's 39 cities and towns all contain historic cemeteries. These burial places reflect the development of individual communities and help document the state's social and economic history.

The Commission encourages programs to restore, rehabilitate and maintain historic cemeteries, and works to identify resources that can assist with their preservation.

This website is intended to help the public locate, document and learn about Rhode Island's historic cemeteries and gravestones.

Search the Cemetery Database Contact a Commission Member
Rhode Island historic cemetery

Found a Historic Cemetery?

If you discover a cemetery that does not appear to be marked or registered, please report it to a Commission member.

Helpful information includes names and dates found on gravestones, photographs, GPS coordinates if available, and a description of the location such as a street, nearby landmark or utility pole. The information can then be compared with the Historical Cemetery Database and forwarded to the appropriate town officials when needed.

Volunteers Needed

Volunteers help locate cemeteries, document gravestones and obtain GPS readings.

Volunteer Activities

  • Photograph gravestones
  • Document historic cemeteries
  • Research deeds and property records
  • Assist with cemetery cleanup
  • Adopt and help care for a cemetery

Cemetery Preservation Guidelines

Please use care and good judgment when visiting or working in a historic cemetery.

Recommended

  • Seek permission from the property owner before crossing private land.
  • Ask where to park and respect the owner's property and wishes.
  • Record names and dates from stones that have not previously been documented.
  • Photograph undocumented gravestones when possible.
  • Take before-and-after photographs when doing cemetery work.
  • Record the date, cemetery location and direction from which photographs were taken.
  • Remove debris carefully.
  • Wear gloves and safety glasses and watch for poison ivy, poison oak and sumac.
  • Use a weather-resistant writing instrument when working in wet conditions.

Please Avoid

  • Do not move gravestones.
  • Do not cut large living trees.
  • Do not drag fallen trees across gravestones. Lift carefully when removal is necessary.
  • Avoid cutting brush during spring growth when possible.
  • Do not leave refuse or equipment behind.
  • Gravestone rubbing is not recommended except under expert supervision.