Elmwood Cemetery

The Elmwood Cemetery is the oldest active cemetery in the Memphis area. The cemetery itself dates back to 1852, when it was founded by a number of people who wanted a Victorian style Garden Cemetery. The property itself sits just south of the downtown area and covers approximately 80 acres. The Visitor Center was built early on and was originally the grounds keeper's residence. That building is the only known example of Victorian Carpenter Gothic architecture in the Memphis area. The cemetery is home to some 72,000 former Memphians, including people from every walk of life. It is also home to the most expensive monument and the tallest monument in the Southern United States. Walking the grounds you find all sorts of interesting markers, from war heroes to common people. There are even a few good ghost stories pertaining to Elmwood. There is no cost of admission but there are several tour options available, self guided, docent led, and audio tours. This landmark is a definite must and it won't cost you a dime.