Among the sprawling landscapes of Los Angeles lies Woodlawn Memorial Park a historic cemetery in Compton. Established around 1869 to 1871 it’s one of the oldest in Los Angeles County. Woodlawn Memorial Park holds a rich history. It has witnessed significant changes over the years.
Woodlawn Memorial Park initially known as Compton Rural Cemetery holds approximately 26800 graves. Among them rest over 900 veterans. Seventeen are unidentified Civil War veterans from the Union Army. Others served in the War of 1812 and even the Gulf War. The cemetery is a poignant reminder of the lives lived and lost in this region. It’s a time capsule of the city’s ever-shifting demographics.
For many years Woodlawn Memorial Park faced neglect. In 2000 it temporarily closed due to the discovery of human remains. Graves had been improperly combined. The then-owner paid a fine to avoid prosecution. Later in 2019 the cemetery was locked and appeared abandoned. Property taxes went unpaid. The water was shut off. Grave markers became illegible.
However Woodlawn Memorial Park’s story is not one of endless decline. Celestina Bishop whose family is buried there took action. In 2021 she organized volunteers to clean the grounds. Her nonprofit One Section At A Time OSAAT helped restore the cemetery. Bishop later became proprietor and renamed it Woodlawn Celestial Gardens.
Despite the ongoing efforts vandalism continues to plague Woodlawn Celestial Gardens. In January 2024 thieves stole metal and copper from gravestones. They also took lawn care equipment. The acts of theft and vandalism are devastating to the community. Woodlawn Celestial Gardens’s story highlights the challenges of preserving a significant historical site. It’s also a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who strive to maintain its legacy. Many notable individuals find their final resting place here including Bunchy Carter a Black Panther Party member. Griffith Dickenson Compton the city’s founder is buried here. Also buried here are Freeman Davis a bone player and Theolic Smith a Negro league pitcher. Francis Everett Townsend a physician and political activist and Fritz Truran a World War II Marine are also here.
Woodlawn Memorial Park a true reflection of Compton’s past. A testament to its strength and spirit. A place to reflect on lives both ordinary and extraordinary. The park continues to need restoration and care. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our history.