Established in 1843, Walnut Grove was the first cemetery in town to serve as a memorial park as well, a growing social movement at that time. The long walking paths, winding through the 25 acres of the cemetery and accompanied by various flora and fauna specimens, are intended to serve as a tranquil repose for the living to enjoy. There are several restrictions, however: no planting on flat markers nor planting of shrubs, bushes, vines or ground cover, no active recreational activities such as skateboarding and no pets allowed. Visitors should not park on the grass.

The cemetery is owned and operated by the Walnut Grove Cemetery Corp. The cemetery records are on file with the Danvers Archival Center at the public library.