Talking Tombstones: May's Hill Cemetery Tour

Cemetery Walking Tour 

An intriguing guided cemetery walk through one of Parramatta's historic cemeteries, Mays Hill Cemetery, dating from 1839, which just oozes with stories ‘from beyond the grave’.

Gaze upon the humblest of tombstones to the more ornate and hear stories ‘from the past’ of the notable and the notorious, the respected and the rogues, including tales of heroic deeds to those of murder most foul. You will learn that behind a few common words on a tombstone can be an amazing story. Some of which will have you in laughter, others may bring a tear to the eye. Words no longer commonly used, symbolism and the use of various materials will also be explained.

Feel those materials, hold artefacts belonging to the departed and learn one of the ways to make faint tombstone inscriptions more visible.

Refreshments at conclusion of tour are included.

$5 from each booking aids the work of the Friends of Mays Hill Cemetery Inc.

Toilets available.

Mays Hill Cemetery does have some uneven ground. Please wear comfortable, closed-in walking shoes, hat, sunscreen and bring water. You must be able to walk unaided and not suitable for young children. Tours may need to be rescheduled due to adverse weather conditions.

Parking in Steele or Franklin Streets. Bus stop near Steele Street.

Cost: $15 adults, $12.50 Seniors and History Council NSW members

Contact: topptours@bigpond.com 

Photo credit: Kerima-Gae Topp