Forest Home Cemetery

Introduction

Forest Home Cemetery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a historic and cultural landmark that has served the city since 1850. As one of Wisconsin’s earliest formal burial grounds and Milwaukee’s oldest operating cemetery, it is renowned for its rich history, stunning funerary art, and lush arboretum landscape. Founded to offer a dignified, non-sectarian burial ground open to all, Forest Home Cemetery reflects the city’s diverse heritage and serves as both a tranquil green space and an open-air museum. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, including historical context, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, tours, and nearby attractions (Forest Home Cemetery History; Wikipedia; Historic Milwaukee).

Founding and Early Development

Forest Home Cemetery was established in 1850 by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church to provide a non-denominational, well-maintained burial ground for Milwaukee’s growing population. At the time, the city’s existing cemeteries were small and poorly kept, leading church leaders to purchase 72 acres two miles outside city limits along Janesville Plank Road (now Forest Home Avenue) (97ZOK Online). The cemetery’s first burial took place in August 1850, coinciding with a cholera outbreak that further solidified its importance in Milwaukee’s civic life (Wikipedia).

Landscape Design and Expansion

Following the rural cemetery movement, Forest Home’s design features winding paths, rolling hills, and extensive plantings. Landscape architect Increase A. Lapham created a naturalistic environment reminiscent of Mount Auburn Cemetery in Massachusetts. Expansion over the decades increased the grounds to nearly 200 acres, making Forest Home not only a burial ground but also Milwaukee’s largest green space and a certified arboretum, home to over 100 tree species (Forest Home Cemetery History; Historic Milwaukee).

Social and Cultural Significance

From its inception, Forest Home Cemetery was open to all, regardless of faith or background, during a time when many cemeteries were restricted (97ZOK Online). This inclusive philosophy made it the final resting place for Milwaukee’s mayors, governors, industrialists, beer barons, and ordinary citizens (Forest Home Cemetery Dignitaries). Among the nearly 120,000 interments are prominent figures such as Frederick Pabst, Joseph Schlitz, Arthur Davidson, and Alexander Mitchell (Wikipedia).

The cemetery also preserves Indigenous heritage, with at least two Native American mounds verified within its grounds, reflecting the site’s layered historical significance (Forest Home Cemetery Event Details).

Military Heritage and Memorial Traditions

Forest Home Cemetery is deeply connected to American military history, with dedicated sections for veterans and the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) honoring Civil War soldiers (Historic Milwaukee VA). Monuments throughout the grounds commemorate service members from the War of 1812 through present-day conflicts. Annual Memorial Day ceremonies and reenactments are longstanding traditions, reinforcing the cemetery’s importance as a site of remembrance (TMJ4 News).

Architectural and Artistic Heritage

The cemetery is notable for its remarkable funerary art and architecture. The Landmark Chapel, designed in the Gothic Revival style, houses the Midwest’s first crematory (built in 1896). Mausoleums and monuments throughout the grounds display Victorian and Gothic elements, intricate stone carvings, stained glass, and symbolic motifs (Historic Milwaukee; Wikipedia). The Halls of History, an indoor mausoleum and museum space, offers exhibits on Milwaukee’s influential citizens (Midwest Wanderer).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

• General Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (hours may extend in summer; always check the official website for updates).
• Chapel and Office: Hours may vary depending on scheduled tours and events.

Ticketing and Admission

• General Admission: Free entry to cemetery grounds.
• Guided Tours & Special Events: Some require advance registration and ticket purchase; see the public tours page for schedules and pricing.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair Access: Paved and accessible paths throughout most areas; ramps available at major buildings.
• Service Animals: Leashed service animals are welcome.
• Parking: Ample free parking near the main entrance.

Travel Tips

• Public Transport: MCTS bus route 18 stops within walking distance on Forest Home Avenue (Evendo).
• Recommended Attire: Comfortable shoes for walking; the grounds are extensive and may have uneven surfaces.
• Visitor Etiquette: Maintain a respectful demeanor, especially near active burials; photography is permitted but should be discreet.

Tours and Events

• Self-Guided Tours: Booklets and maps available at the office; mobile app tours enhance the experience (Midwest Wanderer).
• Guided Tours: Themed walking tours offered from June to September, focusing on Milwaukee’s beer barons, Black leaders, women of influence, funerary art, and environmentalists (Forest Home Cemetery). Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
• Special Events: Memorial Day ceremonies, Spirits of the Silent City (after-dark theatrical tours in October), Dia de los Muertos Festival, Doors Open Milwaukee, and educational programs (Wisconsin Frights; TMJ4 News).

Nearby Attractions

• Milwaukee Public Museum
• Harley-Davidson Museum
• Pabst Mansion
• Lake Park

These sites are within a short drive and make excellent additions to a historical itinerary.

Community Engagement & Notable Events

Forest Home Cemetery is an active community resource, hosting walking tours, educational initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and commemorative ceremonies (All Events In Milwaukee). Programs like “Stories of Strength – Honoring Black Milwaukeeans” and “Milwaukee’s Memorable Mothers” foster dialogue about the city’s diverse heritage (Eventbrite Walking Tours). The cemetery’s role extends beyond remembrance to include environmental stewardship as Milwaukee’s first accredited arboretum.

Preservation and Legacy

For nearly 175 years, Forest Home Cemetery has mirrored Milwaukee’s transformation, serving as a place of reflection, learning, and community. Ongoing preservation ensures the cemetery’s historical, architectural, and ecological value endures for future generations (Forest Home Cemetery History). Stewardship of Indigenous mounds on the property underscores a commitment to honoring all aspects of the land’s past (Forest Home Cemetery Event Details).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Forest Home Cemetery?
A: Generally 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; check the official website for up-to-date hours.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, general entry is free. Tickets are required for some special tours or events.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Leashed service animals and dogs are welcome.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with paved paths and accessible facilities.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, but please be respectful.

Q: How can I get there by public transport?
A: Use MCTS bus route 18; the stop is a short walk from the entrance.

Q: What are nearby attractions?
A: Milwaukee Public Museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, Pabst Mansion, and Lake Park.

Summary and Visitor Tips

Forest Home Cemetery is an essential destination for those interested in Milwaukee’s history, culture, and art. Its inclusive principles, outstanding funerary monuments, and active calendar of tours and events make it both a place of remembrance and a vibrant community hub. For an enriched experience, download the Audiala app for guided audio tours and follow the cemetery’s social media for event announcements.