Walk Eastern Cemetery, Portland peninsula’s oldest historic ground. Designated the burying ground in 1668, the cemetery reflects 300 years of changes on Portland peninsula. The cemetery tells stories of community leaders and marginalized groups, enslavers and the enslaved, the haves and the have nots. Since Portland’s days as a trading post the area east of India Street has served multiple roles, and housed varied communities. Eastern Cemetery holds, hides, and can reveal them.
Spirit’s Alive, the Friends of Eastern Cemetery, marks 20 years of existence this year. How does the ancient historic ground and Spirits Alive fit today? What part will it play in Portland’s future? Jeff Lyons, President and Tour Program Manager of Spirits Alive, knowledgeable about Portland history, historical figures, and gravestone art, leads an informative walk and inquiry.
The wind is always a bit stronger on the hill! The terrain is uneven, and there is very little shade. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes, appropriate layers, and possibly sunscreen. There is no water and no bathrooms available in the cemetery.
Accessibility:
The cemetery is hilly. The ground is rough. Most of the walk route is not at all accessible to wheelchairs. There is a Metro bus stop within a block of the cemetery gate. Street parking is available within a few blocks.
Starting Location:
Meet inside the cemetery gate, near the Victorian tool shed aka Dead House.
Ending Location:
The walk will end where it started
Portland, Maine 04101
1:00 PM
Organization: President and Tour Program Manager, Spirits Alive
