Cemetery Hill

Cemetery Hill in Copperhill, Tennessee, is home to the Copperhill Cemetery, also known as the Copper Basin Pioneer Cemetery. Established in the late 19th century, this cemetery served as the final resting place for many of the area’s early residents, including the first settler, H.T. McCay, of what is now historic downtown Copperhill. The gravestones, numbering approximately 295, have been affected over time by sulfur emissions from the old copper smelting process from the now abandoned copper mines and incidents of vandalism, leading to significant damage and some headstones being illegible.

Despite these challenges, the cemetery remains a significant historical site, reflecting the rich heritage of Copperhill and its community. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underscoring its importance in the region’s history.

While some gravestones are difficult to read due to damage, the site offers a poignant glimpse into the past and the lives of the individuals who contributed to the area’s development.