Magnolia Cemetery

Magnolia Cemetery is a historic burial ground in downtown Baton Rouge that occupies ten acres across four city blocks. The grounds are bordered by Main Street, Florida Boulevard, and 19th and 21st Streets, and feature numerous gravestones and monuments scattered throughout the landscaped area.

The cemetery was established in 1852 when its land was purchased from John Christian Buhler Jr. The site witnessed significant combat during the 1862 Battle of Baton Rouge, becoming a landscape marked by Civil War violence.

The cemetery serves as a burial place for prominent figures from Louisiana's past, including politicians and those who shaped the city's development. Visitors walking through can see how the monuments reflect different periods and the importance placed on remembering these individuals.

The cemetery is located at 422 North 19th Street and is maintained by the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge. Walking through allows visitors to explore the grounds at a leisurely pace and view the various gravestones and monuments throughout.

Every August the grounds host commemorative ceremonies honoring soldiers who fought during the Civil War battle that unfolded here. These annual gatherings keep the connection between the cemetery and the military history alive for visitors.

Location: Baton Rouge

Operator: BREC

GPS coordinates: 30.45098,-91.16767

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03