Elmwood Cemetry

I must admit that old graveyards are my jam. Okay, it may seem weird, but I am not alone. A graveyard is a museum of a different kind. The history and the beauty captivate me. As well I love capturing them through photos. Not to mention it’s great exercise when done on foot too!
Elmwood Cemetery established in 1853 is the cities second oldest public burial space. It is a beautiful example of a Victorian rural park cemetery. It was placed on the National Register for historic places in 2013.
It is 1 of 3 featuring Yellow Fever mass graves. At its height in 1850 one hundred Norfolk residents a day succumbed to the deadly disease. Also VA Governor Littleton Waller Tazewell 1774 – 1860 remains are here.
Hundreds who fought in the Civil War have their final place of rest at Elmwood. There is a memorial statute toward the front by the cemetery office.
The huge Core mausoleum seen from the road is the center piece and most famous on the grounds. Built in 1910 for $ 100k and featuring two beautiful brass statutes flaking the entrance
Also of note is the Recording Angel that watches over Euphania Couper’s grave site. Her world renowned artist son William who was a Norfolk native designed it. (See pic for the inscription on the scroll)
The property is in fair/​poor condition with a back brick wall caved in, markers damaged, or destroyed. Robberies to get brass etc. have been an issue over the years. There are efforts by a local group to fund restoration of the three burial sites that are grouped together. The city has on going conservation efforts as well thru
or their Facebook page.
The next time you feel an urge to learn about the history of Norfolk in a different way check Elmwood, or its sisters Cedar the first Municipal cemetery in Norfolk and West Point. Tours are available by appointment only.