Located in Old Town, the Key West Cemetery has been around since 1847 and is well worth at least a walk-through. Te cemetery is in a section of Old Town called Solares Hill. The land where the cemetery is located is also the highest part (above sea level) of all of Key West. The quirkiness of the city's residents extends even to the grave. Tombstones in this 19-acre cemetery don't wear the typical inscriptions. Instead, you'll find epitaphs that reflect the island's casual lifestyle. Some of the more well-known inscriptions include the wife of the only Doctor in Key West at the time, Dr. Roberts who was the island hypochondriac saying "I told you I was sick" and another saying "I'm just resting my eyes." One tombstone is actually a ship's mast. While you're here, take note that many of these burial plots actually have multiple people stacked on top of one another.
Many recent travelers compared the cemetery to those found in New Orleans, thanks to the prevalence of the above-ground graves. Reviewers also said it reflects the "eclectic" citizens of the Keys. I never would have thought touring a cemetery would be "Fun" but the Key West Cemetery is a lot of fun and then some.
Key West Cemetery is free for anyone to walk through, but you should also consider taking a guided tour, offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. for a moderate fee; advance reservations are required. You can also pick up a map for a self-guided tour at the cemetery's front office, which is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The cemetery is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The guided tours will save you a lot of time finding the "Funny Graves" which will give you more time to do the many other fun things in Key West.
We have something for everyone in Key West. No matter what your reason for visiting our island we will keep you busy. Be sure to put a trip to the cemetery on your to do list. It is well worth the time and it's free.
Gary
Gary McAdams
Realtor and Notary Public
Barbara Anderson Realty
Key West, Florida
