Providence, Rhode Island: Killer Cannonball on Victim's Grave
John Rogers Vinton was killed in the Mexican-American War when a cannonball hit him in the head. That same cannonball garnishes his hilltop tombstone.
Swan Point Cemetery
- Address:
- 585 Blackstone Blvd, Providence, RI
- Directions:
- Swan Point Cemetery. From north: I-95 exit 27. Turn south onto US 1, in two blocks veer left onto George St, which turns into E St; continue 0.8 miles, turn left on Blackstone Blvd; Swan Point Cemetery 2nd left. From South: I-195 exit 3, turn right on Gano St; head north and turn right on Waterman St; at second light, turn left onto Butler Ave; Butler turns into Blackstone Blvd; Swan Point Cemetery is 1.7 miles on right. Enter front gates and ask for directions to the grave. Group 267 on hill.
- Hours:
- Gates open M-F 8:30-4 (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
- Phone:
- 401-272-1314
- Admission:
- Free. No photos permitted.
Results 1 to 2 of 2...
Visitor Tips and News About Killer Cannonball on Victim's Grave
Reports and tips from RoadsideAmerica.com visitors and Roadside America mobile tipsters. Some tips may not be verified. Submit your own tip.
The grave is on Chapel Avenue and you can get a map at the office.
[Barbara, 10/07/2019]On March 22, 1847, during the Battle of Veracruz in the Mexican-American War, Major John Rogers Vinton was hit in the head and killed by a ricocheting cannonball. Major Vinton's body was returned to his native Rhode Island, where he was interred in a plot surrounded by columns resembling upright cannons. His actual grave marker is topped by an artillery shell -- the same one that killed him! A fitting tribute? A misguided and macabre display? You be the judge.
[Kurt Deion / kurtshistoricsites.com, 05/26/2018]Nearby Offbeat Places



Latest Tips Across Roadside America
Catch up on the latest discoveries from the road.
Explore Thousands of Oddball Tourist Attractions!
Unique destinations in the U.S. and Canada are our special obsession. Use our attraction recommendation and maps to plan your next road trip.