A Trip Through Austin's Oldest Cemetery Will Give You A Taste Of The Past
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Elisa Regulski
Author
Although some may claim that cemetery strolls bring back luck, there’s nothing to be anxious about while touring this gorgeous property. Oakwood Cemetery spans over 40 acres in east Austin, and the stunning tombstones stand proud and majestic over the city skyline. If you look closely, you’ll discover fascinating pieces of Texas’ rich history along the way. A trip through Austin’s oldest cemetery will give you a taste of the past.
Oakwood Cemetery dates all the way back to the 1850s, though some believe it may have began even earlier. It took many battles and fights to create this fair city, and its past is laid to rest within these iron gates.
This lovely building was constructed in 1914 and underwent renovations in 1944. In 2016, archaeologists discovered over 30 skeletal remains underneath the chapel. The unidentified remains were sent to a research facility in San Marcos, and will soon be reburied around the mortuary chapel.
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Although some grave markers have weathered away with time, it's fascinating to search for the years etched into the stone. People from all walks of life were buried here, and each one lived an incredible life.
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If you look closely, you'll find Susanna Dickinson's elegant headstone. Dickinson, one of the few survivors of the Alamo, is often referred to as the "fiercest woman of the frontier." It's thanks to her accounts that historians know anything about the brutal battle at The Alamo. Dickinson passed away at 69, outliving five of her husbands. You can learn more about her fascinating life at the Susanna Dickinson Museum at 411 E 5th St.
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Ima Hogg's philanthropic efforts earned her the nickname "The First Lady Of Texas." Hogg lived a long and prosperous life, passing away in 1975 at 93 years old.
Also buried in the Oakwood State Cemetery is Henry Green Madison, the first Afircan-American city councilman in Austin. The headstones of Former Texas governor Andrew J. Hamilton and Texas Ranger John Barclay Armstrong can also be found on the grounds.
Oakwood Cemetery is located at 1601 Navasota St.
Have you taken a stroll through this peaceful cemetery? If you’re aching for more Austin nostalgia, these 10 photos show just how much this city has changed.
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