Hillcrest Cemetery, historic cemetery in Holly Springs, Mississippi, United States
Hillcrest Cemetery is a burial ground in Holly Springs, Mississippi, established in 1845 and covering several acres of open lawns with trees and pathways for visitors to walk through. Flat markers made of stone or bronze characterize the grounds, with the oldest graves along Center Street and an expansion section extending to Elder Street marked by iron gates.
The cemetery was established in 1845 when R. H. Byrne donated land to Holly Springs, though graves had been placed there since 1838 with some from the early 1800s. It witnessed major historical events including the Civil War with six generals buried on the grounds and the yellow fever outbreak of 1878, with victims interred in an unmarked mass grave.
The cemetery serves as a gathering place where families honor their deceased and the community preserves its past through remembrance. Monuments and grave markers reflect the area's struggles and sacrifices, making it a symbol of local identity and shared history.
The cemetery is open to the public during daylight hours with parking available on nearby streets and pathways throughout the grounds to explore different sections. Visitors should respect the graves, keep decorations simple and natural, and leash any pets to maintain the respectful atmosphere.
During the yellow fever outbreak of 1878, reporters and nuns bravely cared for the sick, and their efforts are honored with large monuments on the cemetery grounds. James Bud Holbrook was a respected groundskeeper whose dedicated work earned him recognition throughout the community.
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