Ottumwa Cemetery, cemetery in Ottumwa, Iowa
Ottumwa Cemetery is a burial ground in Ottumwa, Iowa, featuring Gothic Revival architecture and over 150 years of history. The grounds display a mix of simple headstones and more elaborate monuments, with old trees lining the pathways.
The cemetery was founded in 1857 when the older burial ground became full, becoming an important historical site for the town. Over the decades, notable structures like the Edgerly Gateway in 1904 and the office building in 1906 were added.
The cemetery holds the names and stories of generations who lived in Ottumwa. Visitors can see how the community honors its deceased and which families shaped the town.
The grounds are easy to navigate, with curved pathways and signs pointing to historically significant graves. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and take their time walking, as the cemetery is sizable and exploration takes a while.
The cemetery holds a single British Commonwealth war grave from World War I and the resting places of multiple Medal of Honor recipients. These graves connect national and international stories intertwined with local history.
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