Oak Ridge Cemetery | Springfield

Oak Ridge Cemetery is a large and historic cemetery located in Springfield, Illinois, best known as the site of the Lincoln Tomb, the final resting place of President Abraham Lincoln and his family. Established in 1860, Oak Ridge Cemetery serves as a peaceful burial ground and a significant cultural and historical landmark.

Detailed Overview of Oak Ridge Cemetery

1. History and Establishment

Oak Ridge Cemetery was established in 1860 to serve as Springfield’s main burial ground.

It was created to provide a more spacious and landscaped resting place as the city grew.

The cemetery spans over 365 acres, making it one of the largest cemeteries in the Midwest.

Designed in the rural cemetery movement style, it features winding roads, mature trees, and scenic landscapes that promote a park-like atmosphere for visitors.

2. Notable Features

The most famous site within Oak Ridge Cemetery is the Lincoln Tomb, the mausoleum of Abraham Lincoln and his family.

The cemetery also contains many other notable monuments, memorials, and graves of prominent Illinois figures, veterans, and local citizens.

The grounds include military sections dedicated to soldiers from various American wars, including the Civil War, World Wars, Korea, and Vietnam.

Several beautiful sculptures, mausoleums, and historic gravestones add to the artistic and historical significance of the cemetery.

3. Landscaping and Environment

Oak Ridge Cemetery is carefully landscaped to create a serene environment for reflection and remembrance.

The design includes rolling hills, mature oak trees, gardens, and walking paths that encourage peaceful strolls.

The cemetery is maintained with respect for both its natural beauty and its cultural importance.

4. Cultural and Community Role

Beyond being a burial ground, Oak Ridge Cemetery is a site for community remembrance events, especially those related to Abraham Lincoln.

It attracts visitors, historians, and tourists interested in Lincoln’s legacy and American history.

Educational programs and guided tours often include Oak Ridge Cemetery to highlight its significance.

5. Visitor Information

The cemetery is open daily, generally from early morning to evening, allowing visitors to explore the grounds at their own pace.

Visitors can access the Lincoln Tomb and other points of interest with no admission fee.

There are parking facilities and walking trails throughout the cemetery.

The quiet, respectful atmosphere makes it suitable for reflection, photography, and historical study.

Summary

Oak Ridge Cemetery is a historically rich and scenic cemetery in Springfield, Illinois, famous primarily for housing the Lincoln Tomb. It stands as a tribute to many generations of Illinois residents, including notable figures in state and national history. The cemetery’s expansive grounds and serene landscaping make it a significant cultural and memorial site, drawing visitors who appreciate history, architecture, and peaceful natural beauty.