Call Number:

3742

Repository:

Historical Society of Pennsylvania

Extent:

1.4 linear feet (; 1 box, 8 volumes)

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Cite as: [Indicate cited item or series here], Palmer Cemetery records (Collection 3742), The Historical Society of Pennsylvania.

Date:

1833-1888 (bulk) and 1805-1992 (inclusive)

Creator:

Palmer Cemetery (Philadelphia, Pa.).

Abstract:

Palmer Cemetery, located in Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood, was founded in 1732 as the Kensington Burial Ground. It may be one of the city's oldest community graveyards. Palmer was formed on land belonging to Anthony Palmer, merchant and colonial governor, who died in Philadelphia in 1749. Though the property was meant for his family, Palmer wished that the land become a public cemetery for all Kensington residents. At some point, the space took on the name Palmer Cemetery, and is today generally known by that name; though the names "Palmer Cemetery" and "Kensington Burial Grounds" have been used interchangeably throughout the grounds' history.

The records of the Palmer Cemetery are comprised of seven volumes, one box of loose papers and small volumes, and one flat file. They span from the 1830s to the 1990s and make up the bulk of the collection. The volumes include account ledgers of the treasurer, 1838-1958; interment registers, 1859-1980; trustee meeting minutes, 1839-1912; and vault books, 1871-1874 and 1886-1887. Additional items include correspondence, bills, receipts, invoices, legal papers, financial documents, interment permits, and other miscellaneous items. There is also a modern photocopy of records from the 18th century pertaining to Anthony Palmer's estate (Box 1, Folder 11). There are no original records from the 1700s in the collection.