Explore Beauvoir Cemetery in Biloxi

Explore Beauvoir Cemetery in Biloxi

Explore Beauvoir Cemetery

Biloxi, Mississippi is known for its beautiful beaches, exciting casinos, and rich history. One fascinating spot to explore in Biloxi is the Beauvoir Cemetery. The cemetery is located on the grounds of the Beauvoir estate, which was once the home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis.

Historic Graves and Monuments

The cemetery is a peaceful and serene place that is open to the public. Visitors can stroll through the grounds and view the historic headstones and monuments that mark the final resting places of many notable figures from Biloxi’s past.

Confederate Memorial Circle

One of the most prominent features of the Beauvoir Cemetery is the Confederate Memorial Circle. This circle contains the remains of more than 700 Confederate soldiers who died during the Civil War. The circle is surrounded by a wall that is inscribed with the names of the soldiers who are buried there. The monument at the center of the circle is a 48-foot-tall obelisk that was erected in 1903 to honor the soldiers.

Jefferson Davis’s Tomb

Another notable feature of the cemetery is the grave of Jefferson Davis. Davis died in 1889 and was initially buried in New Orleans. In 1893, his body was moved to the Beauvoir estate and interred in a tomb that is now located in the cemetery. The tomb is a large marble structure that is adorned with several inscriptions and symbols related to Davis’s life and legacy.

Other Notable Graves

In addition to the Confederate soldiers and Jefferson Davis, there are many other interesting graves and monuments to see at the Beauvoir Cemetery. For example, there is a memorial to Biloxi’s first mayor, William Harrison Gleason, who died in 1887. There are also graves belonging to several members of the Biloxi Fire Department who lost their lives while on duty in the early 20th century.

Guided Tours

Visitors to the Beauvoir Cemetery can also take a guided tour of the grounds. The tour provides visitors with a detailed history of the cemetery and its inhabitants, as well as information about the art and architecture of the headstones and monuments.

Explore Beauvoir Estate

In addition to the cemetery, visitors to the Beauvoir estate can also explore the Beauvoir House and Museum. The house was built in 1852 and was once the home of Jefferson Davis. The museum contains a wealth of information about Davis and his role in the Civil War, as well as exhibits related to Biloxi’s history and culture.

In conclusion, the Beauvoir Cemetery is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in history or the Civil War. The cemetery’s peaceful grounds and beautiful monuments provide a serene setting for reflection and contemplation, while the guided tours and museum exhibits offer a wealth of information about Biloxi’s past. When planning a trip to Biloxi, be sure to add the Beauvoir Cemetery to your list of must-see attractions. Whether you are a history buff, a Civil War enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful and beautiful spot to spend an afternoon, the Beauvoir Cemetery is well worth a visit.