The Marietta City Cemetery has been a part of Georgia’s history since its establishment in 1831, at a time when native Americans were still living in Cobb County. Unlike many other burial grounds of the era, the cemetery is notable for its approach that welcomed individuals of various races, religions, and backgrounds without segregation. This lack of separation was quite unconventional for Georgia in the 1800s, and it adds to the unique character of this cemetery.
Marietta City Cemetery tells the stories of early residents, the builders and shapers of the town. It’s home to the graves of several former mayors of Marietta and even a former mayor of Smyrna. One notable individual buried here is Steadman Vincent Sanford, a former president of the University of Georgia, whose name lives on in the school’s football stadium. Another is U.S. Senator Alexander Stephens Clay, the only Cobb County native ever elected to the U.S. Senate. Clay’s achievements are inscribed on a 20-foot-high granite obelisk, complete with a powerful message that captures his resilience: “He retreated with the aspects of a victor, and though he succumbed, he seemed to conquer.”
A Tragic Tale: Mary Phagan
Among the cemetery’s more infamous stories is that of Mary Phagan, a young girl whose murder shook the entire state. In 1913, 13-year-old Mary was tragically killed on Confederate Memorial Day. The case attracted widespread attention, eventually leading to the lynching of the accused—a controversial event that still leaves questions unanswered to this day. The sorrow felt by Mary’s community at her untimely death is immortalized in a simple but heart-wrenching epitaph: “Sleep, little girl; sleep in your humble grave but… know that many an aching heart in Georgia beats for you.”
Unsung Heroes: Reverend Thomas Milton Allen
The cemetery isn’t only a place for politicians and tragic figures; it’s also the final resting place for individuals whose efforts left a lasting impact. Reverend Thomas Milton Allen is one such individual. Born into servitude in 1833, Allen rose from his beginnings to become a key figure in Marietta’s African-American community. He was a charter member of Zion Baptist Church, founded in 1866, and served as its second pastor. Reverend Allen also went on to organize multiple other congregations and helped establish the first association for African-American churches in 1890.
Guardian Angel: The Lady in Black
One of the cemetery’s more intriguing legends involves the “Lady in Black.” Lucy Gartrell, a local musician, visited her sister’s grave at least twice a week for 46 years, always dressed in black mourning attire. Her devotion led to her becoming known as the “Lady in Black,” and her story is commemorated with a marker in the cemetery. Her tale continues to fascinate visitors to this day, offering a glimpse into enduring familial love.
Mysteries of the Past
For those interested in the supernatural, Marietta City Cemetery offers its own share of eerie tales. City sexton Sanford Gorham reported seeing unexplainable figures as early as 1895, including a man in black who disappeared without a trace and a woman in black who vanished beside a fresh grave. These stories add a touch of mystery to the cemetery, making it a favorite spot for ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Historical Roots
The earliest known burial in the cemetery dates back to the 1830s, when 8-year-old William Capers G. Harris was laid to rest on the hilltop—a place that would soon become a prominent part of Marietta’s landscape. His poignant epitaph reads: “As you pass by, so once did I,” serving as a reminder of life’s fleeting nature. The hill became a significant part of the city’s history, serving as both a cemetery and a cultural landmark.
The Old Slave Lot is another unique aspect of Marietta City Cemetery. Its presence is unusual for its time—it includes a lot specifically designated for the burial of enslaved and free African-Americans, something not seen in other major cemeteries in Georgia during that period. The efforts of Robert E. Lawhorn, a Confederate veteran who became the city clerk, ensured that these records were preserved, saving this history from being lost forever.
Restoration and Preservation
The cemetery experienced a period of neglect in the early 20th century but saw renewed restoration efforts starting in the 1980s, supported by local leadership and financial contributions from individuals such as George Keeler. These initiatives have helped maintain the cemetery as a well-preserved piece of Marietta’s heritage.
Marietta City Cemetery offers a window into the history of the city and the varied lives of its residents. From early community leaders to unsung heroes and eerie legends, every corner of this cemetery has a story to tell.
Location:
Hours:
Open daily from dusk to dawn
Admission:
Free
Phone:
(770) 794-5601
Address:
420 West Atlanta St SE
Marietta, GA 30064
