Established in 1907, Greenwood Cemetery whispers tales of San Diego’s past. Civic leaders like George Marston and William Kettner envisioned a peaceful resting place. They saw the city-run cemeteries falling into disrepair. They created Greenwood as a beautiful alternative. Greenwood Cemetery spans 125 acres. It’s a picturesque park-like setting just east of downtown San Diego. It sits adjacent to the older Mount Hope Cemetery.
Greenwood Cemetery is more than just a burial ground. It’s a testament to San Diego’s history and its people. The cemetery is dotted with impressive structures. The Cathedral Mausoleum opened in 1919. The four-story Bible Mausoleum followed in 1970. Smaller, private mausoleums add to the landscape. The Mirror Lake cremation garden is a more recent addition, opened in 2017. This tranquil garden features dense plantings around a pond. A stone wall inlaid with memorial plaques leads down to a rustic bridge. The bridge spans a cascading stream.
George Cooke designed Greenwood Cemetery. He envisioned a place of beauty and serenity. Palm-lined paths wind through vast, undulating lawns. Australian willows, strawberry trees, sweet bays, and coast live oaks provide shade and tranquility. In the southwest corner, two unique plots, Arbor Vitae and Elks Rest, stand out. These circular plots contain concentric rings of graves. They radiate outward from central monuments. Greenwood Cemetery serves a diverse community. There are designated plots for firefighters, fraternal organizations, military groups, and various cultures and faiths.
Greenwood Cemetery is a place of remembrance and reflection. Several chapels offer spaces for quiet contemplation and services. A mortuary and crematory provide essential services. Statuary throughout the grounds adds to the cemetery’s artistic and historical significance. A veterans memorial honors those who served their country. Religious figures reflect the diverse faiths represented within the cemetery. Greenwood Cemetery continues to evolve. Fourteen acres in the eastern section are reserved for future development. This ensures that Greenwood Cemetery will continue to serve the San Diego community for generations to come. It will remain a place of peace, remembrance, and beauty.