Discover the Old Burying Ground in Beaufort NC
Relaxed coastal living and a deep sense of history surround the Beau Coast community of new homes in Beaufort NC. It’s the perfect environment to pursue your interests, whether you like to fish, kayak, go shopping or delve into local legends.
One of the most intriguing places to explore is the Old Burying Ground on Ann Street. Founded in the early 1700s, it’s the oldest cemetery in Beaufort. Walking through the cemetery is like time traveling into the past, with old tombstones and vaults shaded by large trees. The vast majority of the graves date from before the 20th century, with 200 or so dating from before the Civil War. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the most famous graves in the cemetery is that of a girl who died on board a ship coming home from a trip to England in the mid-1700s. Her grave is marked by cypress slab with the words “Little Girl Buried in Rum Keg” on it. Apparently her father put her body in a rum keg to preserve it during the trip home to North Carolina. Over the years people have reported sightings of her ghost, and some visitors have left toys on her grave.
Another remarkable grave is the resting place of Otway Burns, a naval hero during the War of 1812. He is buried under a cannon from his ship.
The Old Burying Ground is open year-round every day except Sunday. Guided tours are offered by reservation. Visitors can also download an app for self-guided tours. The tours are arranged and led by members of the Beaufort Historical Association.
Fascinating historical sites are just minutes away from the Beau Coast community in Beaufort NC. Beau Coast has on-site amenities for a relaxed coastal lifestyle including a resort-style pool and clubhouse, a lake with fountains and kayak launches, a community garden, pickleball courts, a dog park, a waterfront park and the Traders to-go café with a dining patio and fire pit. Community social events make Beau Coast even more special for its residents.
Call us today at 833-514-1131 today to schedule your tour of the Beau Coast seaside community of new homes in Beaufort NC.
