Carrie Eliza Getty Tomb

The Carrie Eliza Getty Tomb is a limestone structure in the northern section of Graceland Cemetery featuring octagonal patterns and spiraling cornices across its surface. A broad semi-circular arched entrance frames a patinated bronze door that forms the central focal point.

Lumber merchant Henry Harrison Getty commissioned architect Louis Sullivan in 1890 to design this memorial for his wife Carrie. The work emerged during a period when Sullivan was introducing innovative design principles to memorial architecture.

The tomb displays the geometric language of early Chicago School architecture through its limestone surfaces and patterned details. Visitors who look closely at the structure can see how this building represented a shift toward simpler, more functional design.

The tomb sits in the northern section of Graceland Cemetery and is easily found by following the paths through the burial grounds. Daytime visits work best for viewing the fine details of the stonework and bronze door in good light.

A plaster cast of the ornate bronze door won recognition at the 1900 Paris Exposition for its geometric and floral patterns. This international honor revealed how remarkable Sullivan's craftsmanship was for the era.

Location: Chicago

Architects: Louis Sullivan

GPS coordinates: 41.96114,-87.66127

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00