Petals for the Unnamed
A Day of Remembrance and Revival
Having cleared the trees, restored the cross, and uncovered the stories of the men laid to rest at the Concord Reformatory Prison Cemetery, it was now time to add a little beauty.
On September 27, 2025, volunteers from the Concord Prison Outreach organization gathered at the Concord Reformatory Cemetery for a day of remembrance and renewal, as we planted over 1,000 daffodil and grape hyacinth bulbs on the outer edges of the cemetery.
Together, the team created a place that will blossom with color each spring— a lasting tribute of care and remembrance in honor of those laid to rest there. The goal is to bring color and beauty to this historic ground, ensuring that the lives of those buried are not forgotten.
The bulbs were planted primarily on the lower edge of the cemetery near the adjoining field, where these blooms will start to show in early, mid, and late spring. Daffodils are often seen as a symbol of spring, renewal, hope, and good fortune due to their early blooming cycle. Grape hyacinths symbolize sincerity, trust, hope, and also the renewal of life, due to their early spring appearance.
You can also take part by sponsoring a daffodil for $10 at donorbox.org/reformatorycemetery.
Learn more about the “Naming the Unnamed” Project and the Concord Reformatory Cemetery >
