Early HistoryThe Burying Ground on East Third Street is a veritable Who’s Who of the nineteenth century. For local historians this little plot of land has long been known as the "Westminster Abbey" of Lexington because of the prominence of those buried there.Trustees of Christ Church purchased the property in December, 1832 from Charlton Hunt, the first mayor of Lexington and son of millionaire John Wesley Hunt. The parish needed a new graveyard for burial of its members because there was no room left in the graveyard next to the church.
Little did the Christ Church trustees dream that in less than six months after acquisition of the property the cemetery would reap a harvest of bodies of members who died during the dreadful cholera scourge which ravaged the community in the summer of 1833, taking more than 500 Lexington citizens, including more than a third of the membership of Christ Church. From 1832 to 1850 approximately 400 burials took place in the cemetery, a large number dying of cholera due to the two epidemics of 1833 and 1849. In 1847 Christ Church records show that 150 bodies were moved from the Church area to the burying ground.
Restoration Efforts
The cemetery was well kept for the first half century of its existence. In the early 1900's it fell into disrepair. Several efforts were made at restoration. From abot 1925 to 1945 a resident caretaker did routine maintenance to the cottage and grounds. In 1946-47 a group of Christ Church women spent much time clearing and clearing the grounds. They also recorded data about the gravesites. Brief efforts were again made in the 1970''s and 1980's. In the around 1994 a lasting restoration work was begun and led by Lucy Shropshire Crump and Carole Thomas Pettit. Their goal was to restore the grounds and make them a community attraction.Because of their vision and the continuing work of many dedicated volunteers, the grounds are now offered for all to enjoy.
The Labyrinth
In the year 2000, Christ Church purchased the lot adjacent to the Burying Ground from the Caholic Diocese of Lexington. In 2002, a walking labyrinth was created.
The labyrinth is an ancient sacred design equipped with a simple pathway leading to and from a center. Labyrinths have been used throughout history for varying purposes, including decoration, play, meditation and prayer. Although the path remains unchanged, no two experiences with a labyrinth are the same.
The Walking Labyrinth is always available and can be found at the back of the lot between the OEBG and the Fire Station on 3rd St
Revolutionary War Monument
Standing on the property is a flag and monument giving tribute to the eleven Revolutionary War soldiers buried in the cemetery. All but five were removed to the Lexington Cemetery. In addition, at least three War of 1812 veterans are buried here and one Union soldier is memorialized on the grounds.Whether for personal meditation, exploration, curiosity or a casual stroll, you are welcome to visit the grounds as often as you feel moved. The facilities are also available for group meetings or retreats. Use of the grounds or facilities may be arranged by calling Christ Church Cathedral at 859-254-4497. Burying Ground and Sexton's Cottage available by appointment year round (call church office to obtain key).Labyrinth is open and available year round - no appointment required. Located in downtown Lexington at the intersection of Third Street and Elm Tree Lane (entrance on Third St.)
To view the OEBG Brochure, click here.