Oakland Cemetery, Cemetery in Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Oakland Cemetery is a 48-acre Victorian garden cemetery in central Atlanta, founded in 1850. Its original six acres, entered through 1896 gates, hold the Jasper Newton Smith mausoleum with a life-size statue of Smith, the worn headstone of Dr. James Nissen, and the Neal Monument in Neoclassical style beside the Egyptian Revival Kontz Memorial. The Confederate section contains about 6,900 burials and the 65-foot Stone Mountain granite obelisk dedicated in 1874.
The burial ground was founded in 1850 as Atlanta Cemetery and initially served the growing city as its only public place for interments. Two decades later it received its current name and was expanded with additional burial fields after the Civil War.
The name comes from the oaks that already stood across the grounds when it was renamed in 1872. Gravestones and monuments display different styles depending on the era and background of the families, so visitors can recognize different burial traditions as they walk around.
The entrance is not far from downtown and can be reached on foot or by car, with several parking spots available around the edges. For a full visit you should allow at least an hour, as the grounds are large and many paths connect with each other.
Besides the graves you will also find artworks and sculptures donated over the years by families and artists. The grounds are regularly used for walks, cultural events and educational programs, making it a living place in the city.
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