The picturesque pocket companion, and visitor's guide, through Mount Auburn

In drawing up this account, which we propose to render as practically useful as may be, we have sought to fortify our authenticity by references to original and official documents, for the introduction of which we are confident the reader will require of us no apology beyond what is implied in this explanation. The subject is not of a character to excite the meditative mind for the moment to a mood of matter-of-fact enquiry, but it is certain, on the other hand, that a sentimental history — if such a thing might be — is not what is wanted.

The considerations of a general nature which first led to the adoption of measures for the foundation of the establishment at Mount Auburn, are such as are already familiar, we must presume, to such of our readers as have reflected on the subject at all. In the address delivered at its consecration by Mr. Justice Story, they are expressed with equal force and beauty; as also in the Reports of Committees of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, published in 1831, and written by some of our most distinguished citizens. These papers will be incorporated in this history, or added to it, in due course; meanwhile it is proper to remark that not only sentiments and reflections similar to those which these publications express had long been entertained by many members of this community, but certain incipient steps towards the putting of such designs in execution had been taken, some years, at least, prior to the actual result now well known to the public.

The earliest meeting on the subject of the Cemetery, so far as we have been able to ascertain, was held in

November, 1825, at the house and by the instance of