A few weeks ago, I took this photo at the Congressional Cemetery here on Capitol Hill. Established in 1807, it sits in the midst of the urban bustle in the eastern part of the city. Thought more than 200 years old, in recent years those buried here share the grounds with dogs and their owners, who contribute to the upkeep of the 35 acre site.
History of the Congressional Cemetery
As you enter the main gate, you will see a row of cenotaphs on the left, memorial markers to some of the original senators and congressmen of our country. In 1816, as a gesture of goodwill, the Christ Church set aside 100 burial sites for the interment of members of Congress.(1)
Graves of several congressmen and local luminaries are on the right. It was originally known as the Washington Parish Burial Ground. Until the mid-1830s, most Congressmen who died in Washington were buried in Congressional Cemetery. In addition, the famous architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe designed the cenotaphs. located on the left side of the main road into the cemetery. Some luminaries buried here include John Phillip Sousa and J. Edgar Hoover. The former mayor of DC,Marion Barry, was also laid to rest here a few months ago.
The Cemetery Today
For many years, the cemetery, owned by the Church of Christ, stood in disrepair. Many grave markers were toppled over and the weeds had grown high. But with support from dog owners and donations, the site now makes for a pleasurable visit.
If you haven’t visited the cemetery, I would urge you to do so. It is located on Potomac Avenue near 17th Street SE, 3 blocks from the Potomac Avenue Metro station. Despite its intended purpose, the place is full of life and serves as a wonderful place to stroll.
(1) http://www.congressionalcemetery.org
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