Lynchburg is a beautiful city to visit and live in. For some, it’s even an ideal final resting place. If you’ve ever traveled through Lynchburg (or you’re planning to come soon!), you’ll notice that Lynchburg is home to historic cemeteries and graveyards, people who made both large and small contributions to the fabric of their community.
What you may not know, however, is that there are quite a few famous names in those graveyards.
John Lynch (1740-1820)
Buried: South River Meeting House Graveyard
The founder, and namesake, of Lynchburg and the operator of a ferry service that journeyed across the James River from Ninth Street to Amherst County rests in the South River Meeting House Graveyard.
Anne Spencer (1882-1975)
Buried: Forest Hill Burial Park
Beloved African American poet and activist, Anne Spencer was nationally recognized for her prose and locally loved for her gardens. She and her husband Edward are buried at Forest Hill Burial Park, where their family plot resides.
Lt. Gen. Jubal Early (1816-1951)
Buried: Spring Hill Cemetery
Those well-versed in Civil War history will recognize Lt. Gen. Jubal Early’s name. A leader in the Confederate army, Early was reported as having a horrible temper. When the war ended, he left the country temporarily before returning and settling in Lynchburg. He is buried at Spring Hill Cemetery
Don Reno (1927-1984)
Buried: Spring Hill Cemetery
Don Reno was known as The King of Flatpicking Guitarists and was even inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
Edwin “Ned” Emerson (1839-1922)
Buried: Presbyterian Cemetery
Ned Emerson was performing at Ford’s Theatre at the moment President Lincoln was shot in April 14, 1865. After the assassination, Emerson gave up acting, moved to Lynchburg and worked in the stationery and book business.
Take a Tour of Lynchburg’s Historic Cemeteries
All of the cemeteries mentioned above are open to visitors from dawn to dusk, as well as the area’s other beautiful graveyards. Those interested in learning a little piece of local and national history can enjoy a full day of touring these noted grounds.