Elmwood Cemetery
A historic sanctuary of remembrance, Elmwood Cemetery offers a captivating journey through Charlotte's past with stunning monuments and living history...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Living history, food, music!
Elmwood Cemetery
Best Time
Living history, food, music!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic sanctuary of remembrance, Elmwood Cemetery offers a captivating journey through Charlotte's past with stunning monuments and living history events.
"Beautifully preserved old cemetery. 10/10 would recommend."
Grab a Cemetery Map
Essential for navigating the grounds and finding specific memorials or points of interest. :world_map:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Voices From The Past
Experience Charlotte's history come alive with costumed portrayers sharing fascinating stories of past residents.
Barefoot Horton Tombstone
A unique headstone honoring Hazel Barefoot Horton, featuring only her maiden and married names.
Confederate Section
A solemn area dedicated to approximately 175 Confederate soldiers, many of whom are unknown.

Animal Statues
Discover symbolic animal figures adorning various graves, adding a layer of meaning to the memorials.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore with Purpose
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Grab a Cemetery Map
Essential for navigating the grounds and finding specific memorials or points of interest. :world_map:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Animal Symbolism
Many headstones feature animal statues with unique meanings. :dog:
Check Event Schedules
Special events like 'Voices From The Past' offer a unique way to experience history. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Grab a Cemetery Map
Essential for navigating the grounds and finding specific memorials or points of interest. :world_map:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Animal Symbolism
Many headstones feature animal statues with unique meanings. :dog:
Check Event Schedules
Special events like 'Voices From The Past' offer a unique way to experience history. :calendar:
Respectful Exploration
Remember this is a place of rest; explore with reverence and quiet. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Elmwood Cemetery for its beauty, historical significance, and the unique 'Voices From The Past' event. Many enjoy leisurely walks and discovering the intricate memorials and symbolic statues. Some note the vastness of the grounds, making a map essential for exploration.
"Every spring the residents of Elmwood/Pinewood come alive for the day! Voices From The Past is a living history event with 30+portrayers that tell the amazing stories of the men and women that helped make Charlotte what it is today. Family and pet friendly. Food Trucks, Beer, Music and more! April 6, 2024 11 AM - 3 PM"
Lynn Mintzer
"Happy Saturday! Had fun at "Voices from the Past - Where Charlotte's History Comes Alive for the Day" presented by the Mecklenburg Historical Association Docents. More than 20+ portrayers in costume with interesting, funny stories. 💜"
E. Lim
"Would be laid to rest here. 10/10 would recommend"
zach dean
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elmwood Cemetery is located in Charlotte, NC. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available on-site. Public transportation options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Elmwood Cemetery is a well-known landmark in Charlotte. Using a GPS or mapping app will guide you directly to the entrance.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy riding bikes or taking leisurely walks through the beautiful grounds of Elmwood Cemetery. It's a great way to see the memorials.
While specific hours can vary, Elmwood Cemetery is generally open for visitors during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current information on operating hours.
Yes, there is a main entrance where you can typically pick up a map and get information about the cemetery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, Elmwood Cemetery is free to enter for general exploration. However, special events like 'Voices From The Past' may have an admission fee.
While self-guided exploration is popular, guided tours might be available, especially during special events. It's best to inquire with the cemetery administration or check their website for tour schedules and booking information.
This is an annual living history event where portrayers bring to life the stories of notable individuals buried at Elmwood Cemetery. It's a family-friendly event with food, music, and historical reenactments.
Yes, the Confederate section is part of the cemetery and can be visited. It's a significant historical area dedicated to Confederate soldiers.
Typically, there is an admission fee for the 'Voices From The Past' event, which helps support the historical preservation efforts. Check the event details for current pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often highlight the unique 'Barefoot Horton' tombstone, the symbolic animal statues, and the historical significance of the Confederate section. The 'Ouija Tombstone' is also a point of interest for some.
Elmwood Cemetery offers many beautiful and historic photo opportunities, from intricate headstones to grand monuments and scenic landscapes. It's a popular spot for photographers.
Yes, Elmwood Cemetery is the final resting place for many famous and influential residents of Charlotte. The 'Voices From The Past' event specifically highlights these individuals.
Elmwood Cemetery is one of Charlotte's oldest and largest cemeteries, holding significant historical value by preserving the stories and resting places of many of the city's founders and prominent citizens.
Yes, the cemetery maps provided at the entrance are designed to help you locate specific plots and memorials.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Elmwood Cemetery itself does not typically have dining facilities. However, during special events like 'Voices From The Past,' food trucks are often present.
Charlotte has a wide array of restaurants and cafes near Elmwood Cemetery, offering various cuisines. You can find options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
Picnics are generally permitted in cemeteries, but it's always best to check the specific rules of Elmwood Cemetery regarding outside food and beverages to ensure you're following their guidelines.
Exploring the surrounding neighborhoods of Charlotte will reveal numerous dining options. Depending on your preference, you can find anything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.
Typically, alcohol consumption is restricted in cemeteries unless it's part of a specific, permitted event. It's advisable to confirm Elmwood Cemetery's policy on alcohol.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Elmwood Cemetery, as it's a beautiful and historic location. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
The intricate headstones, the 'Barefoot Horton' tombstone, the animal statues, the Confederate section, and the overall landscape offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photographers.
While general photography is permitted, professional or commercial photography might require special permits. It's wise to check with cemetery management if you plan extensive shoots.
Drone usage is often restricted in cemeteries due to privacy and safety concerns. It's highly recommended to check Elmwood Cemetery's specific drone policy before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for cemetery photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Genealogy Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Elmwood Cemetery
The cemetery's historical importance is further amplified by events like 'Voices From The Past.' This annual living history program brings the cemetery to life by having costumed portrayers embody the individuals buried there, sharing their personal stories and historical context. This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with the past on a deeply personal level, understanding the contributions and challenges faced by those who shaped Charlotte.
Beyond its historical figures, Elmwood Cemetery also holds poignant reminders of collective tragedies, such as the mass grave of yellow fever victims, a somber testament to public health crises of the past. The Confederate section also stands as a significant historical marker, dedicated to soldiers who fought in the Civil War, many of whom remain unidentified. These sections underscore the cemetery's role in memorializing both individual achievements and broader historical events.
Unique Memorials and Symbolism
Another captivating aspect of Elmwood is the prevalence of animal statues used as symbolism on graves. These statues can represent various virtues or characteristics attributed to the deceased, such as loyalty, peace, or guardianship. From serene lambs to watchful dogs, these figures add a layer of personal meaning and artistic expression to the memorials, inviting visitors to interpret their significance.
Beyond these specific examples, the cemetery features a wide range of Victorian-era funerary art, including elaborate obelisks, weeping angels, and ornate mausoleums. Each monument is a testament to the craftsmanship of its time and the desire to create lasting tributes. The sheer variety and artistry of these memorials make Elmwood Cemetery a compelling destination for anyone interested in funerary art, symbolism, and the history of memorialization.
Navigating and Experiencing Elmwood Cemetery
Comfortable footwear is essential, as exploring the cemetery involves a significant amount of walking. Many visitors enjoy the experience of cycling or walking through the serene pathways, taking in the atmosphere and the detailed memorials at their own pace. The cemetery's layout is designed to be explored, offering a peaceful retreat and a journey through history.
For those seeking a more engaging experience, attending special events like 'Voices From The Past' is a must. This annual event transforms the cemetery into a vibrant historical tableau, with actors bringing the stories of its inhabitants to life. It's a fantastic way to learn about Charlotte's history in an interactive and memorable setting.
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