Elmwood Cemetery, cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri, United States
Elmwood Cemetery is a historic burial ground in Missouri established in 1872 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds contain over 30,000 graves with varied headstone styles ranging from simple markers to ornately carved monuments, arranged across sections with winding paths and mature trees.
The cemetery was founded in 1872 by the Elmwood Cemetery Association with its official dedication on September 8 of that year. In 1896, local businessmen formed the Elmwood Cemetery Society to manage the grounds, and renowned architect George Kessler designed its landscape.
The gravestones display symbols like crosses and stars that reflect the beliefs and backgrounds of those buried here, offering insight into the religious and cultural practices of the community. These markers show how different traditions have shaped life in the region over many generations.
The cemetery is easily accessible with nearby parking and well-marked paths throughout the grounds. Visit in early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and softer light, and remember to walk slowly and respectfully through the sections.
The first person buried here was a six-month-old girl named Sallie Ayers, whose burial marked the beginning of more than 150 years of continuous use. This early grave symbolizes how the cemetery has served as a gathering place for generations of families to remember their heritage and honor those who came before.
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