The oldest stone in this ground is that of Edward Gray, and bears the date of 1681. It is probable, however, that earlier burials took place here. Tradition says that the oldest grave is that of John Howland, who died in 1672, although the stone which marks it was erected within comparatively recent years. Tradition also places here the earthly remains of Gov. William Bradford, and a monument bearing his name rises among the graves of the Bradford family, the exact place of the Governor’s interment, however, not being designated.
There are six ancient gravestones bearing date before 1700, as follows:—
Edward Gray, 1681.
William Crowe, 1683-84.
Hannah Clark, 1687.
Thomas Cushman, 1691.
Thomas Clark, 1697.
Ten children of John and Josiah Cotton, 1699.
Possibly there is a seventh,—the defaced tombstone of Nathaniel Thomas, who is said to have died in 1697. The figures on the stone are illegible.
All these stones are on the summit of the hill, within a narrow radius, and near the intersection of the two main paths. With the exception of Gray’s, all are of English make, and in fact most of those bearing dates to 1745 were brought from across the water.