Tour Historic Milk Row Cemetery on Thu. 7/9 and Sun. 7/19

Ever pass by the old cemetery on Somerville Avenue next to the Market Basket parking lot and wonder, "Who is buried there? What's the story behind this place?" Milk Row Cemetery dates back to 1804 and due to its fragile condition it's often closed to the public, but it will be open twice in July for its regular seasonal openings.

Visit the cemetery on Thursday, July 9 from 6-8 p.m. or Sunday, July 19, from 1-4 p.m. when volunteer docents-often dressed in historic period clothing-will help you learn a little about the buried residents, from as far back as Revolutionary times, and their history within the community once known as "Beyond the Neck." Thursday evening is forecast to be pleasant, and Barbara Mangum, a professional Objects Conservator and supremely knowledgeable about the cemetery and its burials, will be the docent this week. Join her! The grounds may also be appreciated as a peaceful retreat for reading and contemplation. The cemetery is also open with docents by appointment.

For more information, or if you are interested in being a docent or joining the Friends of the Milk Row Cemetery, please contact bwilson@somervillema.gov or 617‐625‐6600 extension 2532, or Barbara Mangum at info@historicsomerville.org or 617‐331‐7726. Also check www.somervillema.gov/historicpreservation for other Summer‐Fall 2015 openings.