Tucked into woods along busy Highway 64 between Pittsboro and Siler City lies the grave marker of Dr. James McCarroll, whose story is written on the slab. The original thick, flat marble slab, 3 feet by 6 feet, is one of the oldest inscribed grave markers in the county. It has the following inscription:

"Here lies interred the body of Doctor James McCarroll.
He was born in the County of [Aramagh-sic] Armagh in the Kingdom of
Ireland in the year 1734 and departed this life on the 93rd day
of the year 1777, the 43rd year of his age. He was remarkable for his
knowledge in the arts and science. This monument erected by
Elizabeth McCarroll his widow on the 16th day of 1778."

A new monument was erected by Rachel Whithead, April 2000:
"Dr. James McCarroll
Born in Ireland 1734
Died 3 April 1777
Married to
Elizabeth St. Lawrence"

The Chatham Record published an article "An Old Grave," about the McCarroll gravestone on 15 Nov 1883, noting that it was even then believed to be one of the oldest marked graves in the county. That article incorrectly indicates that Dr. McCarroll's daughter married Patrick St. Lawrence. It was Dr. McCarroll's widow, Elizabeth, who married Mr. St. Lawrence. The error has been carried forward to some more recent histories of the county.

Thanks to Duane Hall for photos taken in 2011 and 2018.

These markers are on private property. Please do not visit without permission.