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Woodlawn Cemetery named National Historic Landmark
New Yorkers have always known that Woodlawn Cemetery was someplace special. This Bronx burial ground is the final home for many of the rich and famous. It's beautiful too, a parklike setting with 400 acres of ornate headstones and mausoleums, such as this one for Frank Winfield Woolworth. Yes, that Woolworth.
Founded in 1863 in an age when wealthy families vied with each other to have the most elaborate mausoleum, it attracts thousands of visitors a year who don't even know anyone buried there. The public certainly knows of many of them: Harry Carey, David Farragut, Duke Ellington, Fiorello La Guardia, Frank Belknap Long, Herman Melville, Bat Masterson, and Joseph Pulitzer to name a few.
Now the cemetery has been named a national Historic Landmark, the highest honor that can be given to a U.S. historic site. Visiting Woodlawn makes a soothing and contemplative break from the high-powered vibe of New York City. If you like cemetery art, check out our picks of creepy and beautiful cemeteries around the world.
[Image courtesy Woodlawn Cemetery]
Filed under: Arts and Culture, History, North America, United States
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Janet Keenan Feb 21st 2012 12:09PM
I absolutely love the art deco beauty of Woodlawn Cemetery. When I relocated to NY from Florida, my Aunt took me to the cemetery to visit my Grandparents' grave.
I went very reluctantly not being much of a fan of cemeteries. But all that changed once I saw what was inside .We actually stayed for hours investigating the stunning architecture of the endless mosoleums, headstones and statues. The angels alone took my breath away.
Today I visited my Aunt's grave for the first time, buried along with my Grandparents now. I miss her more than I can say.
Afterward I drove around for close to an hour imagining her with me again as before in awe of the beauty surrounding us.