Bernard Capen, 1563-1638
no. 675
Barnard and Joan’s gravestone in the North Burying Ground is said to have the oldest date of any known gravestone in New England. The stone is preserved at the New England Historic Genealogical Society. Barnard lived from approximately 1562 to 1638 and Joan from 1578 to 1653. Originally thought to be the oldest stone in the cemetery, the pictured stone was probably a replacement marker. It is now supposed that the original marker was made from wood. Bernard or Barnard Capen arrived in Dorchester in the 1630s.
no. 12305
When the Capens arrived in Dorchester from their voyage on the Mary and John in 1630, they brought with them a bowl that is now displayed at the Dorchester Historical Society.
no. 410
The Capen House was located on the west side of Washington Street approximately across from where the Court House is today.