chocksett

Chocksett Burial Ground, the oldest of six cemeteries in the town of Sterling, is brimming with beauty and small testaments to history, dating back to 1736.

It is positioned at the base of Kendall Hill, just a short distance from the main thoroughfare, and nestled between Clinton Road and Maple Street. There are two entrances connected by a narrow dirt lane. Both are marked by wrought iron gates which were a gift from the Reed family. The borders of this humble place are graced with stone walls which are uniquely New England. Built by the hands of craftsmen of days long past.

This modest place, with its gentle sloping landscape, and trees whose branches reach high and wide as if to embrace and protect those who slumber below, is the final resting place of many Kendall ancestors.

Strolling through the rows of dark slate markers, reading the names and epitaphs a story slowly unfolds. Name by name, year by year the etched testamony of lives lived, silently connects one to another...husband of...wife of...children of...

It gives one reason to pause, to consider their lives, the joys and hardships of life in their times. That they shall not be forgotten, we have assembled here photos of these humble memorials, these etched testaments of many of the Kendall's of Sterling. If you listen closely, stroll quietly through these stones, an important piece of the history of this family and the town they helped to settle will be shared with you.