Torre di Burano | Burano Island

Mount Moriah Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in Deadwood, South Dakota.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery occupies a hillside, with gravestones of varying sizes and materials, including granite, marble, and sandstone. The landscape is characterized by mature trees, primarily pine and deciduous varieties, interspersed with open grassy areas. The terrain is sloped, with pathways winding through the plots.

Location & Access Logistics

Mount Moriah Cemetery is situated approximately 1.5 miles east of downtown Deadwood. Access is via Mount Moriah Drive, which is a paved road. Parking is available at designated areas within the cemetery grounds. Public transport options directly to the cemetery are limited; visitors typically drive or take a taxi/rideshare service from Deadwood.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1878, Mount Moriah Cemetery served as the primary burial site for the boomtown of Deadwood. It was founded to consolidate burials from earlier, less formal graveyards. The site is situated on a geological formation typical of the Black Hills region, characterized by sedimentary rock.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can locate the graves of notable figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Self-guided walking tours are possible, following established pathways. Photography of the gravestones and landscape is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main entrance. Limited shade is provided by the trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located within the cemetery; amenities are available in nearby Deadwood.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the morning or late afternoon when the sun angle provides favorable lighting on the gravestones. The months of May through October offer the most pleasant weather for visiting, with lower precipitation and moderate temperatures. Snowfall can impact accessibility during winter months.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of Mount Moriah is the presence of "mourning jewelry" or hair art incorporated into some Victorian-era tombstones, a practice reflecting the era's funerary customs. The cemetery's layout reflects the social stratification of Deadwood's past, with prominent figures often interred in more accessible or elevated sections.

Nearby Landmarks

• Deadwood Historic Main Street (1.5km West)
• Adams Museum (1.7km West)
• Homestake Mine Visitor Center (4.0km Southwest)
• Tatanka: Story of the Bison (3.5km West)