Tangier in Accomack County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Gravestones
Photographed by Bernard Fisher, August 13, 2017
1. Gravestones Marker
Many people ask about the gravestones in front yards. While not unique to Tangier Island and seen throughout the Eastern Shore of Virginia, these are more obvious on such a small island. A number of reasons have been given for these burial sites:
The close proximity of burying a loved one allowed the grave to be more easily cared for and visited
Placing a grave close to the home reduced the risk of grave-robbery, a common problem in the 1800's and early 1900's
Animals were less likely to dig up graves when in such locations
Higher ground near a home was less likely to result in a casket being floated to the surface by rising tides
(caption)
Cholera victim, 1866 - Kaye, 2008
Erected by Tangier History Museum & Interpretive Cultural Center.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Cemeteries & Burial Sites. In addition, it is included in the Virginia, Tangier History Museum & Interpretive Cultural Center series list.
Location. 37° 49.47′ N, 75° 59.508′ W. Marker is in Tangier, Virginia, in Accomack County. It is on Main Ridge Road south of Dise Lane, on the
this page online
Regionally, this marker is on the Eastern Shore. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, on the Delmarva Peninsula, and in the Tidewater. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Peter Crockett Store (a few steps from this marker); The Doctor's House (within shouting distance of this marker); New Testament Congregation (within shouting distance of this marker); Chesapeake House (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Patrick Benson House (about 400 feet away); The Peter Dise House (about 400 feet away); First Mobile Home (about 400 feet away); The Connorton House (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Tangier.
Also see . . . Tangier History Museum & Interpretive Cultural Center. Find Your Chesapeake website entry (Submitted on August 14, 2017.)
Photographed by Devry Becker Jones (CC0), May 9, 2026
2. Gravestones Marker
The marker has weathered a bit.
Photographed by Bernard Fisher, August 13, 2017
3. Gravestones Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on May 10, 2026. It was originally submitted on August 14, 2017, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 753 times since then and 26 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on August 14, 2017, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. 2. submitted on May 10, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. 3. submitted on August 14, 2017, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia.
