Oak Hill Cemetery in Birmingham, Alabama, is a historic cemetery established in 1871, serving as the final resting place for many of the city's founders, prominent citizens, and numerous veterans from various conflicts, including the Civil War (both Union and Confederate), Spanish-American War, and World Wars. It is known for its park-like atmosphere, historic monuments, and as a significant site for local history, with a dedicated Union soldiers' plot and memorials to those who served.
Historical significance
Early city cemetery: As the first city cemetery, it holds the remains of many of Birmingham's pioneers, including nine of the ten original owners of the Elyton Land Company.
Cholera epidemic: Many victims of the 1873 cholera epidemic are buried there.
National Register of Historic Places: It was the first cemetery in Alabama to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Military burials and memorials
Civil War: Contains numerous Confederate and Union soldiers, with a specific Union Soldiers' Memorial plot established in 1891.
Spanish-American War: Includes Phil Finch, the first member of the Jefferson County Militia to die in the war.
World Wars: Features monuments for veterans like U.S. Navy sailor Kelly Ingram.
Revolutionary War: The grave of John Burford, a Revolutionary War veteran, is located here.
Notable burials
Founders and leaders: Includes the first mayor, Robert Henley, and other city leaders like James Sloss and Henry F. DeBardeleben.
Civil Rights: The grave of civil rights leader Fred Shuttlesworth is located here.
Visiting information
Self-guided tours: Open for self-guided tours from sunrise to sunset. read more