monument cemetery philadelphia

Monument Cemetery: Philadelphia’s Lost Necropolis

Monument Cemetery in Philadelphia, once a sprawling and ornate Victorian-era burial ground, existed from 1837 to 1956. Over 28,000 individuals were interred there before the cemetery was deconsecrated and its land redeveloped, leaving behind only fragmented remnants of its history.

The Rise and Fall of Monument Cemetery

Monument Cemetery was established in 1837 during a period of rapid urban growth and a growing need for formalized burial spaces in Philadelphia. Its design reflected the popular rural cemetery movement, emphasizing park-like settings and elaborate monuments. It quickly became a prominent burial location for many of Philadelphia’s elite and notable citizens. The cemetery occupied a 27-acre site bounded by Broad Street, North Washington Avenue (now Glenwood Avenue), 2nd Street, and Norris Street in what is now the Fairhill neighborhood. Its landscaping featured winding paths, mature trees, and striking statuary, creating a peaceful sanctuary for mourners and a popular destination for leisurely strolls.

Notable Interments

Many prominent Philadelphians were buried at Monument Cemetery, including members of the city’s founding families, politicians, artists, and military figures. A comprehensive list of notable interments, though incomplete due to the destruction of records, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. While a comprehensive list is difficult to find since much of the records has been destroyed, some individuals who were interred here include John Swift (mayor), as well as veterans of the Civil and Revolutionary Wars.

Deconsecration and Redevelopment

By the mid-20th century, Monument Cemetery faced declining revenues and increasing maintenance costs. In 1956, the cemetery was deconsecrated and sold for redevelopment. The remains of those interred were supposed to be moved to Lawnview Cemetery in Rockledge, Pennsylvania. However, due to cost restraints this was not always the case. Many headstones were destroyed and used as construction material. Today, a shopping center and other buildings occupy the former cemetery grounds. Very little remains of this historic landmark.

Further Information

For more in-depth information, see the Wikipedia article on Monument Cemetery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where were the bodies moved from Monument Cemetery?

The remains were supposed to be moved to Lawnview Cemetery in Rockledge, Pennsylvania. However, this was not always the case for all interred individuals due to budgetary limitations.

Why was Monument Cemetery closed?

The cemetery was closed due to declining revenues and increasing maintenance costs.

What is on the site of Monument Cemetery now?

A shopping center and other commercial and residential buildings occupy the former cemetery grounds.

When did Monument Cemetery open and close?

Monument Cemetery operated from 1837 to 1956.

Are there any remains of Monument Cemetery today?

Very few remnants remain. The land has been completely redeveloped, though some reports suggest that the remains were not all moved and still exist beneath the current buildings.

Summary

Monument Cemetery, once a significant landmark in Philadelphia’s history, has been lost to time and redevelopment. Despite its disappearance, its story serves as a reminder of the city’s past and the ever-changing landscape of urban environments.