The birth of Mount Holly Cemetery was described in our cookbook, Recipes in Perpetuity: “With early burials scattered in various places, the city of Little Rock badly needed a public burying ground. The problem was solved in 1843 when two of the leading citizens donated a four block square on the ‘outskirts’ of the city, held a picnic on the land in May, and auctioned off the original lots. ”
Picnics remained a tradition in later years when families of those buried at Mount Holly would have a picnic and tend the graves of their loved ones.
Today we have a dedicated Sexton and staff to maintain the grounds, wonderful Master Gardener volunteers, and a hard-working board to care for the cemetery. One of the most delightful ways we raise funds for the maintenance of this peaceful and historic spot is to invite our friends to celebrate with us at our annual picnic.
Please join us April 29 at 5 p.m. for the annual Spring Picnic at Mount Holly. We won’t put you to work, but we will definitely enjoy your company, let you browse our silent auction items, tour the cemetery with one of our guides, entertain you, and feed you!
Tickets are available online through April 23. Children are $20 and adults are $100.