New Bedford’s Historic Oak Grove Cemetery Has Been Vandalized and Damaged

Oak Grove Cemetery in New Bedford's West End is an elegant and peaceful fixture in the city.

However, recent acts of vandalism have tarnished this sacred space, leaving a trail of destruction that compromises not only the physical condition of the cemetery but also the memories of those laid to rest there.

For many, including myself, Oak Grove Cemetery is a special place where one can escape the hustle of daily life, where history whispers through aging gravestones, where old, massive trees provide shade and comfort. Each visit is a journey through time, with gravestones dating back to the 1800s bearing the names of notable New Bedford figures: Brownell, Carney, Hathaway and Washburn among them.

However, the serenity of Oak Grove has been disrupted by a disturbing trend of vandalism. Over the past few weeks, about a dozen gravestones have been toppled, some shattered into irreparable pieces, revealing fresh white marble to the world after years of weathering.

The lack of surveillance cameras in Oak Grove makes it difficult to catch the perpetrators, but they should face consequences. Massachusetts law has strict penalties for such offenses, including imprisonment up to five years in a state prison and hefty fines up to $5,000, along with compensation to property owners. In this case, that would be the City of New Bedford.

READ MORE: New Bedford Hidden Cemetery Is Old But Not Forgotten

Sadly, this isn’t the first instance of vandalism in the cemetery, but it is a strong reminder of the need for community action to protect New Bedford's heritage.

Report suspicious activity to New Bedford Police Department so vandals can be held accountable.

Oak Grove Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it's a place of solace for generations past and present. Let's hope the message is heard loud and clear to those responsible for desecrating New Bedford's history: Your actions will have consequences.