The Pioneer Graveyard: A Brief History

Limestone was a thriving settlement at the turn of the 19th century. Its trustees had petitioned Virginia for a town at Limestone Creek in 1787, and certainly burials were taking place contemporaneously. Burials at the graveyard began at least as early as 1800. The trustees of Maysville recognized the need and on February 28, 1804, for four pounds and three shillings, gave to the people of Maysville lots 47 and 66, half an acre a piece, to be used as graveyard. The town’s trustees were Jacob Boone, William Byers, George Mitchell, Charles Gallagher, Joseph B. Liebert, and John Armstrong.

The Pioneer Graveyard is located directly behind the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center. Follow the narrow path between KYGMC and Phillips’ Folly!

Graveyard Epitaphs

VERSE SAMPLES

From the grave of John Mitchell: Affliction sore long time I bore Physicians were in vain, Till God did please to give me ease, And Free me from my pain.

From the stone of Mrs. Nancy Duncan: Lord I commit my soul to thee, Accept the sacred trust: Receive this nobler part of me, And watch my sleeping dust.

From the 1875 newspaper is a reference to the wandering spirit of our pioneers: There is a calm for those that weep, A rest for weary Pilgrims found; Where they may lay and softly sleep. Low in the ground.