The Shreiner Concord Cemetery is an historic landmark in the city of Lancaster, PA. It is the final resting place for U.S. Congressman Thaddeus Stevens and the only burial ground, of its time and place, with no limitations as to color, race or creed.
Due to its age, condition and social legacy, Shreiner-Concord Cemetery is considered to be a contributing element within the City of Lancaster National Historic District, as designated by the National Park Service. Having many characteristics of a public park; it was originally laid out in 1836 on two adjacent City building lots and was developed as a cemetery open to the public. Best known as the burial site of US Congressman Thaddeus Stevens, a radical abolitionist, Underground Railroad supporter and “father” of the primary civil rights amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Stevens (1792-1868) chose to be buried at this public cemetery because rules established by founder and owner Martin Shreiner (1769-1866) were not restrictive based on race, as were other cemeteries in Lancaster at the time.
The Shreiner-Concord Cemetery is preserved and protected through the efforts of the Shreiner-Concord Cemetery Foundation. The foundation strives to maintain the tranquil beauty and historic integrity of this small green space in the heart of the City of Lancaster. For more information on their work visit
http://www.shreinercemetery.org/
To honor and enhance the legacy of beauty and equality embodied in this site, for our community and future generations. We embrace this distinct heritage, and will continue to preserve it through research, restoration, and commemorative events.
Approved by the Foundation Board of Directors November 23, 2011
The Cemetery offers the public free daily access from dawn until dusk throughout the year. Annual commemoration of the birth of Thaddeus Stevens, on or near April 4. Spring and Fall community cleanups.
