D E PA R T M E N T S H I S TO R Y
HISTORIC OAKWOOD CEMETERY
A sacred space celebrating more than 150 years of prominence and purpose BY ANITA B. STONE
PHOTOS BY BRIAN MULLINS
F
ew people would put the final resting place of those who have passed at the top of their “can’t-wait-to-see” list— especially in light of modern-day cemeteries that lack any sense of originality. But Historic Oakwood Cemetery, established in 1869 and located at 701 Oakwood Avenue in Raleigh, rises above expectations and presents itself as an up-to-date, innovative and imaginative 19-century gem. The cemetery’s grounds accommodate ancient trees lining miles of paved paths that beckon visitors to step beyond the iron-scrolled entrance to a treasured garden-park in downtown Raleigh, where many come to relax, eat lunch, stroll along the paths or play a game of bridge.
PURPOSEFUL PROMINENCE
Raleigh’s oldest private cemetery is cared for by the Sons of Confederate Veterans and accommodates a cross section of more than 20,000 of the area’s citizenry, including prominent city, state and national leaders. Upon entering Historic Oakwood Cemetery’s sacred grounds, visitors often sense a sharp awareness of the importance of where one’s final resting place is set. Stately willows hover over headstones throughout the landscape, and elaborate granite sculptures enhance a walk through this historic space, which has held meaning to Raleigh and Wake County for more than 150 years. Thirty acres have been reserved for future needs and are located in what is often referred to as “Old Raleigh,” where Victorian homes and tidily tended lawns line the streets. Historic Oakwood Cemetery’s grounds were originally part of the plantation belonging to Moses Mordecai, a prominent Raleigh attorney. Mordecai’s son, Henry, donated the grounds for the cemetery in 1867. The Mordecai House, built in 1785 and located at 1 Mimosa Street in Mordecai Historic Park, is the oldest house in Raleigh in its original location; it is a designated Raleigh historic landmark, and accommodates a museum that is open to the public.
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