Incorporated in 1849, River Bend Cemetery was originally called Elm Grove Cemetery. "River Bend' was thought to be more appropriate due to the unique and beautiful location on the eastern bank of the Pawcatuck River.

A cemetery tour will reveal a unique tale of the people and events that made this community so special over the last two hundred years. Hundreds of war veterans from the Civil War, the two World Wars, and up to the present, as well as two Congressional Medal of Honor winners, are interred at River Bend. The monuments at River Bend tell many stories of untimely death, local politicians, doctors, preachers, accidents and hurricanes. In a wider sense, River Bend tells the story of our community in art and memory.

The cemetery abounds with magnificent granite carvings created by artists and their descendents, brought to the area to work in the granite industry. Some monuments are large and intricate ... some small and delicate. They are all works of art and labors of love.

River Bend Cemetery has always been dedicated to maintaining this property as a beautiful river landscape with ever-evolving plans for improvements in horticultural aspects, as well as maintenance and upkeep of roads and buildings. The cemetery is a beautful place for the living to come and celebrate the life of a deceased loved one in a tranquil and caring environment.

River Bend Cemtery is managed by a Board of Trustees who are lot owners in River Bend Cemetery (proprietors). The Board of Trustees employs a superintendent and oversees the financial affairs of the cemetery, as well as maintenance and improvements.