Evergreen Cemetery
Discover the rich history and poignant grave portraits at Evergreen Cemetery, a significant resting place with stories dating back to the 1800s.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Evergreen Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the rich history and poignant grave portraits at Evergreen Cemetery, a significant resting place with stories dating back to the 1800s.
"A place of consolation with beautifully kept grounds, though decoration policies can be a point of contention."
🗺️ Grab a Map
Get a map from the front gate to easily locate specific sections and interesting headstones like the Ouija tombstone.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the unique grave portraits and historical markers, but always be mindful and respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Grave Portraits
Various sections
Discover unique and touching grave portraits, a tradition introduced by Russian-Armenians. These images offer a glimpse into the lives of those interred.
Ouija Tombstone
Section 'P'
Locate the intriguing Ouija tombstone, a unique marker that has become a point of interest for visitors seeking unusual historical finds.
Wilde Memorial Chapel
Portland, Maine location
A beautiful, historic chapel built in 1902, often used for ceremonies and offering a picturesque setting within the cemetery grounds.
Civil War Soldier Graves
Various sections
Pay respects to soldiers who fought in the Civil War, a significant part of the cemetery's historical narrative and a testament to early LA pioneers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Decoration Policies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Grab a Map
Get a map from the front gate to easily locate specific sections and interesting headstones like the Ouija tombstone.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the unique grave portraits and historical markers, but always be mindful and respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and find specific graves.
🤫 Maintain Quiet
This is a place of rest. Keep noise levels down and avoid disruptive behavior.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Grab a Map
Get a map from the front gate to easily locate specific sections and interesting headstones like the Ouija tombstone.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the unique grave portraits and historical markers, but always be mindful and respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and find specific graves.
🤫 Maintain Quiet
This is a place of rest. Keep noise levels down and avoid disruptive behavior.
🧐 Check Decoration Rules
Understand the cemetery's policies on decorations to avoid having items removed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Evergreen Cemetery is often praised for its historical significance, beautiful grave portraits, and well-maintained grounds, offering a peaceful place for reflection. However, some visitors express frustration with strict decoration policies that lead to items being removed, impacting their ability to honor loved ones. The upkeep of older structures and headstones is also an area noted for potential improvement.
"Evergreen cemetery has always been a place of consolation for our family. We have known many people who were entered here as well as our own three pre-born babies. Beautifully kept and lovingly tended by the staff here. The grounds are evidence that this is a place that is well respected and well protected."
Grove Higgins
"Staff has always been helpful and friendly. Grounds are kept up.I would like to see the city increase funding for upkeep and renovations. Some of the old sites and buildings could really use it. This is a very large site and dates back many generations. I hope you don't feel that anything posted here was to be disrespectful in any way."
Mudd Mannipulater
"It is sad that you put beautiful flowers and angels , Solar lights and then they remove them they do cost money but this cemetery doesn’t care about all the families feeling what so ever. You would think they would call a family member to tell you to come and pick up your stuff but they just throw it away. I pray that their family members are not treated like that. because it hurts our hearts this cemetery I will never use again. You go to other cemetery’s and they allow you to put whatever you want for your family member and they don’t throw it away and they are beautiful cemetery’s . I wish they would let us families members honor our loved ones because that’s all we have. They will put some crap that you can do that this cemetery is a joke. And families pay for these Cemetery plots !!!!!!!!!!"
Virg Medina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Evergreen Cemetery is located in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles. Public transportation options are available, and driving is also common. Parking can be found within the cemetery grounds.
Yes, several bus lines serve the area around Evergreen Cemetery in Los Angeles, making it accessible via public transit. Check local transit schedules for specific routes and times.
Parking is available within the cemetery grounds. It's advisable to arrive earlier on busy days to secure a convenient spot.
No, there are multiple Evergreen Cemeteries. The one in Oakland, California, founded in 1903, has its own distinct history and is separate from the Los Angeles location.
Yes, Evergreen Cemetery is a common name for cemeteries across the US, including locations in Portland, Maine, and Fayetteville, North Carolina, each with unique features. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required to visit Evergreen Cemetery for historical exploration and reflection. It's typically open to the public during its operating hours.
Operating hours can vary by location and season. It's best to check the specific Evergreen Cemetery's official website or contact their office for the most current hours.
Most Evergreen Cemeteries do not charge an admission fee for visitors. However, services like plot purchases or funeral arrangements will have associated costs.
Visiting cemeteries at night is generally not recommended and may be prohibited due to safety concerns and cemetery policies. Stick to daylight hours for your visit.
Visitors are expected to be respectful. Large groups or disruptive behavior may be restricted. Always adhere to posted rules and guidelines.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Evergreen Cemetery offers historical grave portraits, unique tombstones like the Ouija tombstone, and the resting places of pioneers and soldiers. It's a place rich in history and often features beautiful natural scenery.
To find the Ouija Tombstone, get a map from the front gate, locate section 'P', and follow specific directions involving steps and turns.
Some visitors and local lore suggest Evergreen Cemetery has paranormal activity, contributing to its reputation as a place with eerie encounters and ghost tales.
Photography is generally allowed, especially for capturing historical markers and grave portraits. However, always be respectful and avoid intrusive photography.
Evergreen Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in its respective locations, often dating back to the 1800s or early 1900s, and holds the graves of many pioneers and significant historical figures. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no dining facilities within Evergreen Cemetery itself. Visitors usually bring their own refreshments or plan to eat before or after their visit.
The Boyle Heights area surrounding Evergreen Cemetery offers various local eateries, from casual taquerias to diverse restaurants. Exploring the neighborhood will provide many options.
Picnicking rules can vary. It's best to check with the specific cemetery management, but generally, quiet, respectful consumption of food is often permitted in designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The grave portraits, historic chapels (like Wilde Memorial Chapel), and unique headstones are prime subjects. The natural landscape also offers beautiful photographic opportunities.
While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography, especially during services or when disturbing other visitors. Respect the solemnity of the location.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is ideal for capturing details and wider shots. A smartphone camera can also capture great images, especially with good lighting.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the atmosphere. Early mornings can offer soft light and fewer people.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in cemeteries due to privacy concerns and potential disturbance. Always check local regulations and cemetery policies before flying any aerial equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the more visually interesting aspects, like unique tombstone designs or the stories behind the oldest graves. Bringing a small notebook for kids to sketch or write down interesting facts can make the visit more engaging. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as exploring the grounds can involve a lot of walking.
🏛️ History Buffs & Genealogists
Take advantage of any available directories or maps to locate specific historical figures or family plots. Researching prominent individuals buried there beforehand can enhance your visit. Be prepared to spend time carefully examining headstones and taking notes or photographs for your research.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
+1Aim for visits during the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon for the most atmospheric lighting. Explore different angles and compositions to capture the mood and details of the cemetery. Remember to always be respectful of the environment and any ongoing services or visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Evergreen Cemetery
Beyond its age, Evergreen Cemetery is notable for the diverse communities it serves. The tradition of placing photographs on grave markers, introduced by Russian-Armenians after World War I, adds a deeply personal and artistic dimension to the cemetery. These grave portraits are not just markers of remembrance but also visual narratives of lives lived, making Evergreen a unique cultural repository. The presence of historical structures like the Wilde Memorial Chapel, built in 1902, further enhances its historical and architectural significance.
+1However, the cemetery's history is also intertwined with the challenges of maintaining such a large, historic site. Issues like funding for upkeep and renovations, and the management of decorations, have been raised by visitors and families. Despite these challenges, Evergreen Cemetery remains a place of profound historical importance and a quiet space for reflection and remembrance for many families.
Navigating Evergreen Cemetery: Tips for Visitors
Photography is a popular activity at Evergreen Cemetery, especially for capturing the poignant grave portraits and the serene, often beautiful, landscape. However, it's crucial to practice respectful photography. This means being mindful of the solemn nature of the site, avoiding intrusive shots, and refraining from disturbing any graves or ongoing ceremonies. The late afternoon often provides the best lighting for photography, with the 'golden hour' casting a warm glow over the headstones.
+1It's also important to be aware of the cemetery's policies, particularly regarding decorations. Some visitors have shared experiences of their placed items being removed, leading to frustration. While the cemetery aims to maintain its grounds, understanding and adhering to their specific rules about what can be placed at gravesites can help prevent disappointment.
The 'Haunted' Reputation of Evergreen Cemetery
While the paranormal aspect draws some visitors, it's important to approach such claims with a balanced perspective. The cemetery's historical depth, with graves dating back centuries and housing individuals who lived through significant historical events, naturally lends itself to stories and a sense of mystery. Whether one believes in ghosts or not, the historical weight of the place is undeniable and contributes to its unique ambiance.
For those interested in the 'haunted' aspect, visiting during daylight hours is still recommended for safety and respect. The cemetery's historical significance and the stories embedded within its tombstones are often compelling enough on their own, regardless of any paranormal activity.
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