Myrtle Hill Cemetery | Rome City

Information

Landmark: Myrtle Hill Cemetery
City: Rome City
Country: USA Georgia
Continent: North America

Myrtle Hill Cemetery, Rome City, USA Georgia, North America

Myrtle Hill Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in Rome, Georgia, USA.

It serves as a significant historical and cultural site within the city.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery covers approximately 38 acres. It features rolling hills with mature oak and pine trees providing canopy cover. Gravestones vary in material from granite and marble to sandstone, with inscriptions ranging from simple dates to elaborate carvings. The grounds are organized into distinct sections, some with more formal pathways and others with natural, less defined routes.

Location & Access Logistics

Myrtle Hill Cemetery is situated at 1000 North Broad Street, Rome, Georgia. It is approximately 1.5 miles north of the downtown Rome City center. Access is via North Broad Street, which is a main arterial road. Ample on-site parking is available within designated areas near the main entrance and along some internal roads. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stops are several blocks away on North Broad Street, requiring a walk to the cemetery entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1856, Myrtle Hill Cemetery was designed by landscape architect William H. Clark. Its original purpose was to serve as the primary municipal burial ground for the growing city of Rome. The site was chosen for its elevated position and natural beauty. Ecologically, the area is characterized by Piedmont forest vegetation, with the Etowah River bordering its eastern edge.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the gravesites of notable figures, including Confederate soldiers and local dignitaries. Walking tours focusing on historical figures and architectural styles of headstones are available. Photography of the landscape and monuments is permitted. The cemetery is suitable for quiet contemplation and historical research.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located near the main administrative building at the entrance. Limited shaded areas are provided by the mature tree canopy. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the cemetery. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions. Water fountains are located near the restrooms.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) is recommended, particularly during spring and fall. The months of April, May, September, and October offer the most pleasant weather conditions with moderate temperatures. There are no tidal considerations for visiting.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the "Angel of Grief" sculpture, a popular subject for photographers. Local lore suggests that a specific section of the cemetery, known as "The Old Section," is prone to unusual atmospheric phenomena, though this is unsubstantiated.