Elmwood Cemetery (Memphis, Tennessee)

Elmwood

Elmwood Cemetery (Memphis, Tennessee)

Elmwood Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in Memphis, Tennessee. Established in 1852, it is one of the oldest active cemeteries in the city and serves as the final resting place for many prominent individuals in Memphis history.

History

The idea for Elmwood Cemetery was conceived in the early 1850s as a response to the city's growing need for a proper burial ground. The cemetery was designed in the rural cemetery style popular at the time, with winding paths, ornate monuments, and lush landscaping.

Notable Interments

Elmwood Cemetery is the final resting place for a number of notable individuals, including:

• E. H. Crump - Political boss of Memphis
• Ida B. Wells - Civil rights activist and journalist
• Clarence Saunders - Founder of Piggly Wiggly, the first self-service grocery store
• Mary Church Terrell - African American civil rights activist and suffragist

Architecture and Features

The cemetery features a variety of architectural styles in its monuments and mausoleums, reflecting the changing tastes and trends in funerary art over the years. Visitors to Elmwood can explore the grounds and admire the intricate carvings and designs found throughout the cemetery.

Preservation Efforts

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and restore Elmwood Cemetery's historic structures and monuments. Preservationists and volunteers work to maintain the cemetery's beauty and ensure that it remains a significant cultural and historical landmark in Memphis.