Just a short distance from historic stretches of U.S. Route 1 in Baltimore, Maryland, lies Green Mount Cemetery — one of America’s most fascinating and solemn landscapes. Established in 1839, Green Mount is a walk through the nation’s history, layered with triumph, tragedy, and mystery.

A Who’s Who of American History

Wander the rolling hills and you’ll find monuments to some of America’s most notable (and notorious) figures:

• John Wilkes Booth, assassin of President Abraham Lincoln
• Enoch Pratt, philanthropist and founder of the Pratt Free Library
• Johns Hopkins, founder of the university and hospital that bear his name
• Elijah Bond, inventor of the Ouija Board

The cemetery is filled with elaborate Victorian tombstones, obelisks, and statues, many crafted by renowned artists of the 19th century. It’s a place where history and art coexist in a quiet, contemplative setting.

The Booth Family Plot

Perhaps the most visited and controversial site within Green Mount is the Booth family plot, where John Wilkes Booth is buried alongside other members of his family. His grave remains unmarked by name—a simple blank stone—but visitors often leave pennies as a form of silent commentary.

Why It’s Worth the Stop

• Rich in history: From Civil War generals to industrial tycoons
• Architectural beauty: Intricately designed mausoleums and monuments
• A walkable museum: Every headstone tells a piece of America’s story

Planning Your Visit

Location: 1500 Greenmount Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21202

Hours: Monday through Friday, check the website for visitor guidelines

Tip: Take a guided tour if available—the stories behind the stones make the visit unforgettable

A Route 1 Detour into America’s Past

For travelers seeking a meaningful, reflective pause along Route 1, Greenmount Cemetery offers a deeper understanding of the people who shaped, challenged, and changed the nation. It’s a journey into the heart of America’s complex past, just minutes from the road that has connected its cities and stories for centuries.