Citizens Cemetery
A historic cemetery in Flagstaff, AZ, known for its unique sandstone headstones and poignant memorials, including the TWA plane crash victims.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Citizens Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cemetery in Flagstaff, AZ, known for its unique sandstone headstones and poignant memorials, including the TWA plane crash victims.
"It's so peaceful and magical here. "
🎯 Plot Finder Tip
Look for brass letter markers at row starts to help locate graves. :world_map:
🚶♀️ Respectful Wanderer
Maintain a quiet and respectful presence. It's a peaceful place for contemplation. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
TWA Flight 260 Memorial
Rear of the cemetery
A poignant mass grave memorializing victims of the 1956 Grand Canyon plane crash. A somber reminder of aviation history.
Moenkopi Sandstone Headstones
Various sections
Unique local sandstone markers offer a glimpse into early Flagstaff history and craftsmanship.
Lockett Family Plot
Specific section
Discover the historic Lockett family graves, featuring distinctive old sandstone headstones.
Commodore Perry Owen's Grave
Wild West section
Pay respects to the legendary Wild West figure, Commodore Perry Owen, buried here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Citizens Cemetery
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plot Finder Tip
Look for brass letter markers at row starts to help locate graves. :world_map:
🚶♀️ Respectful Wanderer
Maintain a quiet and respectful presence. It's a peaceful place for contemplation. :pray:
📸 Photography Focus
Capture the unique sandstone headstones and natural beauty. :camerawithflash:
❄️ Winter Visit
Snowy landscapes offer a unique, serene atmosphere. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plot Finder Tip
Look for brass letter markers at row starts to help locate graves. :world_map:
🚶♀️ Respectful Wanderer
Maintain a quiet and respectful presence. It's a peaceful place for contemplation. :pray:
📸 Photography Focus
Capture the unique sandstone headstones and natural beauty. :camerawithflash:
❄️ Winter Visit
Snowy landscapes offer a unique, serene atmosphere. :snowflake:
🌳 Nature Spotting
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like squirrels and birds. :squirrel:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Citizens Cemetery to be a peaceful and magical place, rich with local history and unique sandstone headstones. While some note challenges with navigation and headstone placement, the overall experience is often described as memorable and touching, particularly the TWA memorial. +1
"You can find your loved one here using burialsearch.com I found my cousin and it was extremely memorable. It’s so peaceful and magical here. When you first start out on a row on the ground you’ll find a square with a circled brass letter. That’s a good way to start. I wish they had it marked a little better. May all your loved ones Rest In Peace."
howaboutrobert vette
"I really wish there were more options as to what cemetery to bury our loved ones in! My brother-in-law bought a headstone and it was delivered back in June! Here we are now in mid October and it still has not been placed! I took a count and there are 45 headstones still waiting to be set and placed! I get during winter that's not doable but some of these headstones were delivered over a year ago! It's pathetic! These are grieving families and for so many people the headstone is what really makes it final! I've called and got the runaround! I also get being short staffed! However after over a year, that excuse is just that! An excuse! I took it a step further and called Gino who works for the city and got a similar excuse from him! He said he'd call me the very next day with an answer and a solution! SURPRISE!! He didn't call back! He didn't return my brother-in-law's calls at all! It's honestly DISGUSTING just how little any of these people care!! 😒"
Audrey Cooper
"I stopped here in January 2020 to see the 1956 TWA / United Grand Canyon Collision Memorial. I thought I would have difficulty finding the memorial because I didn't know where to look. I ended up parking about 100 feet away without knowing it until I began to walk around. The memorial is located in the back of the cemetery. I just had to pause for a few moments to read the names of the individuals who were buried in the mass grave. I really felt touched by it. It could have used a little touch up but then again it's winter and things looked a little dull. Very touching to stand there and think about what had happened so many years ago."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Citizens Cemetery is located in Flagstaff, Arizona. It's accessible by car, typically found by following local road signs. Parking is available on-site.
While the cemetery itself is straightforward to locate, finding specific plots can be challenging. Look for the brass letter markers at the beginning of rows to help navigate.
Parking is generally available, but visiting during off-peak hours like weekday mornings or late afternoons can ensure easier access.
Information on public transport directly to the cemetery is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access.
Yes, using GPS with the address 'Citizens Cemetery, Flagstaff, AZ' should guide you directly to the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Citizens Cemetery is a public space and generally does not have an entrance fee. It's free to visit and explore.
As a cemetery, it is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local listings or call ahead for specific hours, especially around holidays.
No, tickets are not required for entry. Visitors can typically walk in during operating hours.
While official guided tours may not always be available, some local historians or podcasters offer insights into the cemetery's history. +1
Visiting cemeteries at night is generally discouraged due to safety and respect for the grounds. Stick to daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the TWA plane crash memorial, unique Moenkopi sandstone headstones, the Lockett family plot, and the grave of Commodore Perry Owen. +2
Look for the square markers with circled brass letters at the start of each row. This system can help you navigate and locate specific plots.
Yes, the unique sandstone headstones, natural beauty, and historical markers make it a popular spot for photography.
Visitors often spot squirrels, mice, and various birds. The natural setting provides a habitat for local fauna.
Yes, it's a great place for a peaceful walk. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be on uneven ground. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the distinctive Moenkopi sandstone headstones, the TWA memorial, and the natural landscapes. The historical markers also offer great shots. +1
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots, especially with the sandstone textures.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in cemeteries to maintain peace and respect. Check local regulations if unsure.
The TWA memorial offers a powerful and somber photographic opportunity. The variety of headstone styles also provides unique visual interest. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for wildlife like squirrels and birds, which are often seen in the cemetery grounds.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting, which can enhance the textures of the headstones and the surrounding trees. The TWA Flight 260 Memorial also offers a powerful and poignant subject for photography, though it should be approached with sensitivity. The cemetery's natural elements, like mature trees and occasional wildlife, add further depth to photographic compositions.
🤔 History Buffs & Taphophiles
The TWA Flight 260 Memorial is a must-see for its historical significance, providing a tangible connection to a tragic aviation event. Exploring the cemetery allows for a deep dive into the lives and legacies of those who shaped the region. Many visitors find the cemetery's quiet atmosphere conducive to research and reflection on the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The TWA Flight 260 Tragedy
Visitors often describe standing at the memorial as a deeply touching experience. It's a place for quiet reflection on the fragility of life and the impact of such historical events. While the memorial itself might benefit from occasional touch-ups, its presence offers a profound connection to a significant moment in Arizona's history.
This memorial is a key reason many people visit Citizens Cemetery, seeking to pay their respects and learn more about this piece of local history. It's a powerful testament to remembrance and the enduring stories held within the cemetery grounds.
Unique Sandstone Headstones
These natural stone markers stand in contrast to more modern granite or marble headstones, providing a rich visual tapestry. Exploring the cemetery allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and the way these stones have integrated with the natural environment. Some of these older stones, like those in the Lockett family plot, are particularly noteworthy for their historical significance and unique design.
For photographers and history enthusiasts, these sandstone headstones are a primary draw. They offer a distinct visual appeal and a sense of the cemetery's long history. Capturing their textures and forms can be a rewarding photographic endeavor.
Navigating and Finding Plots
Some reviews mention that the cemetery could be better marked, and there have been instances of delays in headstone placement. If you are visiting to find a specific loved one, it's advisable to do some research beforehand and be prepared for a bit of searching. Using online burial search tools or contacting cemetery management in advance might be beneficial.
Despite these minor navigational challenges, many visitors find the search itself to be a memorable part of their experience, leading to moments of discovery and reflection. The peaceful ambiance of the cemetery often makes the exploration a worthwhile endeavor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit