Stanford Mausoleum

The Stanford Mausoleum is a granite structure located within the university's arboretum, marked by Egyptian male sphinx statues at its front entrance and Greek female sphinx figures positioned at the rear. The building blends distinct artistic traditions within its stone design.

The structure was completed in 1903 and houses the remains of Leland Stanford, his wife Jane, and their son Leland Jr., whose memory inspired the creation of the university itself. Its construction served as a memorial to the institution's founding family.

The site connects visitors to the university's founding story, drawing students and staff who come to acknowledge the Stanford family's legacy. You can observe how academic traditions blend with personal remembrance here.

The mausoleum is generally not open to walk-in visitors and typically requires advance permission from the university administration to view. Contacting Stanford University directly beforehand helps arrange access and understand current visiting conditions.

Students annually organize an event called "Maus" held during the last weekend of October at this location, mixing academic reverence with contemporary celebration. This unusual gathering brings together historical respect with modern campus traditions.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 37.43650,-122.17000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:21