What's Buried At Boot Hill Cemetery Tombstone Az? Historical Insights

The infamous Boot Hill Cemetery in Tombstone, Arizona, is a place where the Old West’s rugged and often brutal history comes alive. This cemetery, which was in use from 1878 to 1884, is the final resting place for many of the town’s early residents, including outlaws, lawmen, and ordinary citizens. The term “Boot Hill” is a colloquialism that refers to the practice of burying people with their boots on, which was a common method of burial in the American West during the 19th century.

As you walk through the cemetery’s gates, you’re immediately struck by the rustic, weathered headstones and the sense of history that permeates the air. Many of the graves are marked with simple, hand-carved headstones, while others have more elaborate monuments. Despite the passing of time, the stories of those buried here remain a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who lived and died in Tombstone during its heyday.

One of the most famous residents of Boot Hill Cemetery is Billy Clanton, who was killed during the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in 1881. His grave is marked with a simple headstone that bears his name and the date of his death. Nearby lies the grave of Billy’s brother, Ike Clanton, who was also involved in the famous gunfight. Ike’s grave is marked with a more elaborate monument, which includes a bronze plaque that tells the story of his life and death.

Another notable resident of Boot Hill Cemetery is Morgan Earp, the brother of Wyatt Earp. Morgan was assassinated in 1882, and his grave is marked with a simple headstone that bears his name and the date of his death. The Earp brothers were a prominent family in Tombstone, and their lives and deaths are still the subject of much fascination and debate among historians and Old West enthusiasts.

In addition to the outlaws and lawmen, Boot Hill Cemetery is also the final resting place for many ordinary citizens, including miners, merchants, and families. Their stories are often just as fascinating as those of the more famous residents, and they provide a glimpse into the daily lives of people who lived and worked in Tombstone during its early years.

The history of Boot Hill Cemetery is also marked by tragedy and loss. Many of the graves are those of people who died from diseases such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and typhoid fever, which were prevalent in the American West during the 19th century. Others died from accidents, gunfights, and other forms of violence, which were common in a town like Tombstone that was known for its lawlessness and rough-and-tumble lifestyle.

Despite the many stories that are buried at Boot Hill Cemetery, much of the history of the cemetery itself remains a mystery. Many of the graves are unmarked, and the identities of those buried there are unknown. The cemetery was abandoned in the late 1880s, and it wasn’t until the 1940s that a group of local residents began to restore and preserve the cemetery. Today, Boot Hill Cemetery is a popular tourist attraction, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the American West.

In conclusion, Boot Hill Cemetery in Tombstone, Arizona, is a place of fascination and discovery, where the history of the Old West comes alive through the stories of those buried there. From outlaws and lawmen to ordinary citizens, the graves at Boot Hill Cemetery offer a glimpse into the lives and deaths of people who lived and worked in one of the most notorious towns in the American West.

As we reflect on the history and significance of Boot Hill Cemetery, it’s clear that this place is more than just a collection of graves – it’s a window into the past, a reminder of the complexities and challenges of life in the American West during the 19th century. Whether you’re a historian, a Old West enthusiast, or simply someone who’s fascinated by the stories of those who came before us, Boot Hill Cemetery is a must-visit destination that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.