Oak Woods Cemetery

Introduction

Oak Woods Cemetery, located at 1035 E. 67th Street on Chicago’s South Side, is one of the city’s most historic and culturally significant cemeteries. Spanning approximately 183 acres, the cemetery was established in 1853 during the rural cemetery movement—a period when city dwellers sought tranquil, park-like burial grounds outside urban centers. Oak Woods is renowned not only for its lush Victorian landscaping and grand monuments but also for its role in reflecting Chicago’s complex social, political, and racial history. The cemetery provides a resting place for thousands, including pivotal figures from the Civil War, the Great Migration, and civil rights movements, making it a living chronicle of the city’s evolution (Chicagology; Dignity Memorial).

Founding and Historical Background

Oak Woods Cemetery was founded in 1853, with its first burial occurring in 1860. Established by M. A. Farwell, the cemetery originally covered 160 acres and was expanded to 200 acres, featuring a Victorian "lawn plan" with ornamental lakes, native oak trees, and scenic vistas (Chicagology). The design was inspired by Mount Auburn Cemetery in Massachusetts, emphasizing a park-like setting for both mourning and contemplation.

The cemetery became especially important after the closure of Chicago’s City Cemetery in Lincoln Park, which led to the transfer of thousands of remains—including Confederate prisoners of war—to Oak Woods in the late 1860s (Medium). By 1885, Oak Woods had accepted nearly 19,000 burials, mirroring the explosive growth and evolving demographics of Chicago (Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois).

Civil War Legacy: The Confederate Mound

A defining feature of Oak Woods is the Confederate Mound, the largest mass grave of Confederate soldiers in the United States. Approximately 4,000 to 6,000 prisoners from Camp Douglas—a Union prison camp—are interred here. The 30-foot granite monument marking the site was erected in 1895 and is surrounded by headstones arranged in concentric circles (National Park Service).

While Memorial Day ceremonies at the mound have been held for over a century, the monument remains controversial due to its representation of Confederate memory within a cemetery that is also home to many African American leaders and abolitionists (Hyde Park Historical Society). The cemetery also features a Soldier’s Memorial honoring Union soldiers and the "Lincoln the Orator" monument, underscoring the layered narratives of the Civil War present on the grounds.

African American Heritage and Community Diversity

Oak Woods Cemetery holds particular significance for its role in African American history, especially during the Great Migration, when Chicago became a central hub for Black cultural and political achievement (Black Chicago History). The cemetery is the final resting place of civil rights pioneer Ida B. Wells, Chicago’s first African American mayor Harold Washington, Olympic legend Jesse Owens, and other influential Black leaders (Encyclopedia of Chicago).

Additionally, Oak Woods reflects Chicago’s multicultural heritage through its dedicated Jewish sections, such as Ohave Mariampole, Beth Hamedrosh Hagodol, and Beth Rodfei Zedek, which are managed by local congregations and are physically separated by fences (Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois).

Notable Burials and Monuments

Oak Woods Cemetery is the final resting place for a diverse array of influential figures:

• Ida B. Wells: Journalist and civil rights activist (Chicago Beautiful)
• Harold Washington: First African American mayor of Chicago (Choose Chicago)
• Jesse Owens: Four-time Olympic gold medalist (Choose Chicago)
• Enrico Fermi: Nobel Prize-winning physicist (Atomic Heritage Foundation)
• William Hale Thompson: Notable mayor, “Big Bill” (Find a Grave)
• John H. Johnson and Eunice Johnson: Pioneers in African American publishing (Architecture.org)
• Oscar Stanton De Priest: First African American congressman from the North in the 20th century (Hyde Park Historical Society)
• Daniel Hale Williams: Pioneering African American surgeon (Hyde Park Historical Society)
• John G. Shedd: Philanthropist and founder of Shedd Aquarium (Find a Grave)

Other notable burials include Eugene Sawyer, Monroe Heath, Robert Sengstacke Abbott, and Timuel Black.

The cemetery’s Victorian monuments, mausoleums, and family crypts display a range of architectural styles, from Gothic Revival to Classical, and serve as markers of Chicago’s diverse and influential residents (Chicago Beautiful).

Cemetery Layout, Landscape, and Architecture

Oak Woods features winding roads, mature oak trees, and four ornamental lakes, creating a peaceful, contemplative environment. The “Symphony Shores” section, notable for its proximity to Symphony Lake and the graves of several Chicago mayors, exemplifies the cemetery’s picturesque Victorian-era landscape design (Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois). Greenhouses supply flowers for memorials, and paved paths provide accessibility throughout much of the grounds.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

• Hours: Oak Woods Cemetery is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours may be extended seasonally to 7:00 PM. Confirm with the official website or call ahead for holiday or special event schedules.
• Admission: Entrance is free. Donations are welcome to support maintenance and preservation.
• Guided Tours: Offered seasonally by local historical societies and cemetery staff, with a focus on Civil War history, architecture, and notable burials. Special events take place on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and during Chicago Architecture Center tours (Architecture.org).
• Self-Guided Tours: Free walking tour maps are available at the cemetery office. The Hyde Park Historical Society provides interactive and printable guides.
• Directions: The cemetery is accessible by car (ample on-site parking), CTA Red Line (Garfield stop), and multiple bus routes.

Accessibility and Etiquette

• Accessibility: Most main paths are paved and suitable for wheelchairs; however, some older or private sections (like the Jewish section near 71st Street) may be less accessible or overgrown (This Belongs In A Museum).
• Visitor Etiquette: Oak Woods is an active burial ground. Visitors should behave respectfully, avoid disturbing services, and refrain from climbing on monuments.
• Photography: Permitted for personal use, except during funerals or in the presence of mourners. Some areas may have restrictions; always ask if in doubt.
• Jewish Section: This area is fenced and marked as private property. Please respect posted signs and do not enter restricted zones.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

• Hyde Park: A vibrant neighborhood with museums, restaurants, and cultural sites.
• Jackson Park: Adjacent historic park, ideal for walks and picnics.
• Museum of Science and Industry: Located nearby, perfect for combining educational experiences.
• Shedd Aquarium: Funded by John G. Shedd, who is interred at Oak Woods.

Travel Tips:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring water, especially in warm weather.
• Obtain a map at the main office for self-guided tours.
• Check the cemetery or historical society websites for tour and event updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Oak Woods Cemetery?
A: Typically 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily; hours may be extended seasonally.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No. Admission is free; donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are offered seasonally and for special events. Check with the cemetery or historical societies for schedules.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Most main paths are accessible, but some older or private sections may be difficult to navigate.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is allowed for personal use, but should be conducted respectfully.

Q: Are there nearby attractions?
A: Yes. Hyde Park, Jackson Park, and the Museum of Science and Industry are all nearby.

Q: How do I get to Oak Woods Cemetery?
A: Accessible by car, CTA Red Line, and several bus routes.

Q: Is the cemetery safe to visit?
A: The cemetery is generally safe during daylight hours, with staff and regular patrols.