As San Antonio expanded east the streets were extended and reached the burying grounds by the early 1900s. When the first cemetery was opened in 1853 the area was countryside. The mill was still operating during the War Between the States (1861-5) near the early burial grounds. It is estimated that over 70% of the interments occurred prior to 1949.Įarly Spanish settlers constructed a powder mill on the hill to produce gunpowder for protection from raiding Indians and hunting. Burials do still occur but they are rare. Most of the 31 cemeteries are laid out with rows of graves running north to south with the tombstones facing east. Materials used include marble, limestone, granite, metal (iron or zinc), cement and wood. However, the majority of the monuments range from modest to simple handmade markers. Visitors will discover obelisks, Woodmen of the World tree trunk markers, vertical monuments (both on the ground and on bases), stones with scrolls, flowers and other funeral symbolism and many more styles. There are many excellent pieces of funereal sculpture, statues, mausoleums, arches, gateposts and tombstones. Those remaining vary in appearance from average maintenance to virtual abandonment. Two, Temple Beth El and Agudas Achim, are considered very formal burial gardens and are extremely well cared for. Government and 1 by the United Confederate Veterans. Of these 6 were constructed under the auspices of the City, 9 by churches and synagogues, 12 by religious and fraternal organizations, 2 by local families, 1 by the U. Over a 51 year period beginning in 1853, thirty-one cemeteries were established side by side on a hill approximately 1.5 miles east of downtown San Antonio. “Rest sweetly, tender heart, in peace.” Lord Alfred Tennyson Crockett, Nevada & Pine Streetsīurials: Unknown (Minimum Estimate: 25,000)
Old San Antonio City Cemeteries Historic Districtīordered by N.
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