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It’s like an unfinished puzzle. That’s how archeologists at Red Hill describe the Henry Family Cemetery. The problem isn’t a lack of information. There’s plenty of detailed records about who is buried alongside Revolutionary War hero Patrick Henry at his final home. But as to where in the cemetery they’re buried or anything tying some of the cemetery’s residents together, that’s where things get complicated. 

“The history of the Henry family cemetery at Red Hill has been carefully preserved and researched over time,” said Cody Youngblood. He works as the Director of Historic Preservation and Collections at Red Hill. “However, much of this information has not been brought together into a singular narrative, making it an unfinished puzzle. This project builds upon that research foundation by creating a master report—a comprehensive resource for staff to organize and share the rich history of the Henry family and their final resting place.”

Youngblood is referring to a report he and independent archeologist Jasper Clayton have been working on, to help put those puzzle pieces together. It’s been a lengthy process, one tying in different projects stretching over the last three decades. 

“This report brings together four archaeological investigations spanning 30 years, over 300 archival documents, nearly 20 maps, 50 photographs, oral and written histories of the Henry family, and restoration works executed on the cemetery over time,” Youngblood said. “By compiling existing records with new discoveries, we aim to ensure this legacy remains accessible for future generations. Once complete, the report will be publicly accessible to allow researchers an opportunity to understand this important cemetery.” 

What do we know about the cemetery? 

So who is buried in the Henry Family Cemetery? A high level of organization has led to a precise catalog. 

“The Henry family cemetery at Red Hill contains seven marked graves representing four generations of the family, beginning with Patrick Henry, the famed Revolutionary orator and former Virginia governor, who was one of the first buried here,” Youngblood said. “He lies beside his second wife of 21 years, Dorothea Dandridge Henry.”

Nearby are the graves of their youngest son, John Henry (1796–1868), and his wife, Elvira McClelland Henry. A tomb to the west marks the burial of Laura Helen Carter, John and Elvira’s daughter. Across the walkway lies a great-grandson of Patrick and Dorothea—also named John Henry (1867–1868)—and the son of William Wirt Henry.

There are other burials at the site as well. It’s expected, but not confirmed that Alexander Spotswood Henry is buried, likely near Patrick Henry. There’s also three unmarked graves, two adults and one infant, near Laura Helen Carter. Historical records and archaeological hypotheses suggest that Fayette Henry (Patrick and Dorothea’s son) and his wife, Anne Elcan Henry, were interred at Red Hill, and they may be the two unmarked adult graves. Patrick and Dorothea’s youngest daughter, Jane Robertson Henry, who died at four days old in 1798, may be the unmarked infant grave. 

The report was one step in the right direction of mapping all of this out. Youngblood’s continuing work is focused on putting the pieces together, as finding one person leads to the next. His hope is that over the next few years, we’ll have a clear picture of who was buried and when.

“Ongoing research aims to document the cemetery’s rich history further and establish a timeline of the cemetery’s size and context in the history of Red Hill”, Youngblood said. 

More about preserving Red Hill

In 1944, the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation was established to preserve Red Hill and its historical significance. The foundation has restored Henry’s law office, reconstructed his last home, and maintained the cemetery grounds. Today, Red Hill operates as a museum and educational center, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of Patrick Henry.

Visitors to Red Hill can pay their respects at the Henry Family Cemetery, reflect on the profound impact of Patrick Henry’s contributions to American independence, and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse histories intertwined with this historic site.

Patrick Henry’s Red Hill is located at 1250 Red Hill Rd. in Brookneal. Hours through October are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Additional information on the Patrick Henry National Memorial can be found online at RedHill.org or by calling 434-376-2044.