Oak Grove Cemetery was established in 1855 and designed by Josiah Brown, who is also known for his designs of early city mills including the Union, Borden City, and the now demolished Montaup Mill.
Originally 47 acres and now over 100 acres, Oak Grove was inspired by Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The original 47 acres of land was purchased by the city from Dr. Nathan Durfee at the high price of $200 an acre. The elevated site was chosen over less expensive parcels because of its central location and natural appropriateness for cemetery use and perhaps because of the importance of the owner. In return for the purchase of his land, Durfee agreed to buy a parcel between North Main St. and Highland Ave. which the city had originally acquired for a park. The new cemetery was located in the relatively undeveloped northeast section of the city.
Oak Grove, Fall River’s largest city-owned cemetery, was developed in the mid-19th century as a rural garden cemetery, and its natural beauties and imposing monuments reflect the wealth and pride of the mill owners and the city’s elite buried here.
The city’s principle families are buried here, the Bordens, Durfees, Braytons, Davols, Chaces, and other founding fathers who shaped Fall River’s industrial and civic growth. In 1866 Oak Grove became the final resting place for over 255 children in just one year.
Available in mid-September 2014, the Revised edition.
Friends of Oak Grove Cemetery 
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I came to your cemetery when I was there in Kentucky. I was so amazed at the beauty of it. I took so many pictures. I don’t know what I’m going to do with the pictures yet but I’m so happy I was there!! If you’re in Kentucky, make sure you see it!
My parents, the Parkers and Riendeaus. as well as my extended family the Harrisons are interned at Oak Grove Cemetery and as was our custom on Memorial Day and other such commemerative days we would visit their graves to pay respect to the departed. Yesterday May 27,2024 I took my family to pay respect to my family and was dissapointed at the condition of the cemetery. Although the property had been mowed it was obvious it was a less than a quality job and most headstones were overgrown with weeds that should have been trimmed. As this property is a reflection on the respect we pay to our ancestors, its condition was a poor reflection of that respect. I dont know if there is anything that can be done but it is my opinion we should explore how we can do a better job of maintaining the property
Alan P Riendeau
401-598-6853
My Ancestors are also Interned there as well my Great Great Grandfather Arthur Lee King also related to the KINGS of Cusetta, GA.
J.W. King 10/20/2024