Elmwood Cemetery

Elmwood Cemetery Detroit: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Elmwood Cemetery, established in 1846, is Detroit’s oldest continuously operating, non-denominational cemetery and a living monument to the city’s historical, cultural, and social evolution. Designed in the rural or garden cemetery style popularized in the 19th century, Elmwood’s rolling hills, winding paths, and more than 1,450 trees create a tranquil urban oasis. The grounds serve as the final resting place for over 130,000 individuals, including political leaders, civil rights pioneers, military heroes, and industrialists. The cemetery’s notable architectural features—such as its Gothic Revival chapel and gatehouse—along with its nationally recognized arboretum, make it a unique destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape in Detroit.

This guide details Elmwood Cemetery’s visiting hours, ticketing for tours, accessibility, and essential visitor tips, while highlighting its foundational role as a progressive, inclusive burial ground during an era of widespread segregation. Elmwood’s designation on the National Register of Historic Places and its status as Detroit’s first accredited arboretum underscore its enduring cultural, historical, and environmental significance.

For up-to-date visitor information, special events, and biographies, visit the Historic Elmwood Foundation website and explore their tours and events page.

Entrance gate to Elmwood Cemetery with trees and pathway

Founding and Early Development
Architectural and Landscape Features
Historical Significance & Notable Burials
Elmwood in Detroit’s Urban and Social History
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Preservation and Recognition
Community Engagement & Commemoration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Tips for Visiting
Visuals and Media
Plan Your Visit

Founding and Early Development

Founded in 1846, Elmwood Cemetery emerged in response to Detroit’s rapid urban growth and the limitations of earlier, overcrowded burial grounds. The original 42-acre site, selected for its natural rolling terrain and proximity to Conner Creek, was designed in the garden cemetery tradition, providing both dignified burials and a verdant public park. This style, which predated Frederick Law Olmsted’s most famous works, emphasized natural beauty, winding pathways, and contemplative landscapes. As Detroit expanded, Elmwood grew to its present 86 acres, maintaining its status as a green refuge within the city.

Architectural and Landscape Features

Elmwood’s landscape is a masterwork of 19th-century cemetery design. In 1891, Frederick Law Olmsted was commissioned to further develop the grounds, emphasizing natural scenery and preservation of mature trees. Today, Elmwood is recognized as one of Michigan’s most diverse urban forests.

Key architectural highlights include:

Gothic Revival Chapel (1856): Constructed from local limestone, this chapel is a striking example of ecclesiastical architecture and has been restored after fire damage.
Main Gatehouse (1870): An ornate Gothic Revival structure with iron gates welcomes visitors to the cemetery.
Funerary Art: From simple headstones to elaborate Victorian-era memorials, the cemetery features work by prominent sculptors, including the “Veiled Lady” by Randolph Rogers and the “Flying Geese” sculpture by Marshall Fredericks.
Accredited Arboretum: Elmwood’s 1,450+ trees represent more than 100 species, each labeled and accessible via QR codes for self-guided arboretum tours.

Historical Significance & Notable Burials

Elmwood Cemetery encapsulates Detroit’s multifaceted past, serving as the final resting place for leaders and citizens who shaped the city and the nation.

Political and Civic Leaders

Lewis Cass: Influential governor, U.S. Secretary of War, Secretary of State, and 1848 presidential candidate.
Coleman A. Young: Detroit’s first African American mayor, recognized for his transformative leadership.
Zachariah Chandler: U.S. Senator and abolitionist.

Military Figures

Civil War Section: Honors over 1,000 Union soldiers, including General Alpheus S. Williams and members of the 102nd U.S. Colored Troops.
Veterans’ Graves: Burial sites for veterans from the Revolutionary War through Vietnam.

Business and Industry Pioneers

Bernhard Stroh: Founder of the Stroh Brewery Company.
Russell A. Alger: Lumber magnate, Civil War general, U.S. Secretary of War.
Members of the Dodge, Joy, and Brush families: Key contributors to Detroit’s industrial rise.

Abolitionists & Underground Railroad Agents: William Lambert, Horace Hallock, Shubael Conant, and Judge Ross Wilkins.
Civil Rights Leaders: Erma Henderson, Detroit’s first African American woman on City Council; John C. Dancy, founder of Michigan’s first camp for African American children and community centers.

Cultural Icons

Dudley Randall: Poet and founder of Broadside Press.
Fred “Sonic” Smith: Guitarist for MC5.
Martha Jean “The Queen” Steinberg: Influential radio personality.

Elmwood’s story mirrors Detroit’s transformation from a frontier settlement to a booming industrial metropolis. The cemetery’s records chronicle waves of immigration, public health crises, and the city’s evolving demographics. It has provided a safe, sanitary burial ground during epidemics and disasters and served as a gathering place for memorials, civic events, and community traditions. Elmwood’s inclusive ethos—welcoming people of all races, religions, and backgrounds—set it apart during an era of widespread segregation (BLAC Media, Detroit Cathedral).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours:
- Spring/Summer (May 1–Sept 15): 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Fall/Winter (Sept 16–Apr 30): 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Office Hours: Weekdays 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Saturdays 9:00 a.m. – Noon; Closed Sundays (grounds remain open).
Admission: Free for general entry. Guided tours and special events may require tickets or donations.
Location: 1200 Elmwood Avenue, Detroit, MI 48207. Alternative GPS: 1000 Robert Bradby Dr, Detroit, MI 48207.
Parking: Free parking available on-site.
Accessibility: Most main roads are paved and wheelchair accessible. Some areas have hilly terrain. Trolley tours offer alternatives for those with mobility challenges.
Pets: Leashed dogs are welcome; owners must clean up after pets.

For tour schedules and ticketing, visit the Elmwood Cemetery Tours page.

Preservation and Recognition

Elmwood Cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (since 1982) and was designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1975 (Detroit Historical Society). Ongoing preservation efforts, led by the Historic Elmwood Foundation, focus on restoring monuments, maintaining the landscape, and supporting educational initiatives. Elmwood’s status as Detroit’s first accredited arboretum (2015) highlights its environmental stewardship (BLAC Media).

Community Engagement & Commemoration

Elmwood remains a vibrant community resource, hosting:

Guided Tours: African American History, Underground Railroad, Twilight, and Trolley Tours.
Events: Memorial Day ceremonies, birding walks (in partnership with Detroit Bird Alliance), and Third Thursday evenings for walking and sketching.
Cemetery Salons: Community gatherings modeled after 19th-century discussion groups.
Educational Programs: For schools and the public, highlighting Detroit’s diverse heritage.

Tour proceeds support ongoing restoration and educational programming (Elmwood Historic Cemetery).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Elmwood Cemetery’s visiting hours?
Spring/Summer: 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Fall/Winter: 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Always check the official website for updates.

Is there an admission fee?
General admission is free. Guided tours require tickets or donations.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, multiple themed tours are offered throughout the year. See the tours page for details.

Is the cemetery accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Main pathways are accessible; terrain varies. Trolley tours are available.

Can I take photographs?
Photography is encouraged for personal use. Professional sessions require prior approval.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome.

Tips for Visiting

Wear comfortable shoes for walking the hilly terrain.
Bring water and check weather forecasts; amenities are limited.
Download audio and self-guided tours via the Audiala app.
Pick up a map at the office or download one before arrival.
Respect funerals and mourners; avoid disturbing services.
Combine your visit with nearby sites like Mount Elliott Cemetery and Lafayette Street Cemetery for a broader Detroit history experience.

Visuals and Media

Access high-quality images and virtual tours of Elmwood’s landscape and monuments on the official website.
Use interactive maps to plan your route and highlight must-see graves and memorials.

Plan Your Visit

Elmwood Cemetery offers a rare blend of history, architecture, nature, and community. Whether you join a guided tour or explore independently, you’ll discover stories that shaped Detroit and the nation. For the latest updates, events, and resources, visit the Historic Elmwood Foundation website and enhance your visit with the Audiala app.

Summary

Elmwood Cemetery stands as a testament to Detroit’s transformation, inclusivity, and cultural vibrancy. Its grounds are a tapestry of political history, social progress, artistic achievement, and environmental stewardship. With accessible paths, multiple tour options, and ongoing preservation efforts, Elmwood is both a historical landmark and a living museum. Plan your visit to experience the legacy and serenity of one of Detroit’s most treasured sites.