Oakwood Cemetery predates the town of Huntsville, and wishes to respect the deceased with a peaceful environment.
Oakwood Cemetery was deeded to the city of Huntsville in 1847 by the founder of Huntsville, Pleasant Gray. It is comprised of six sections: the Old Cemetery, the African American cemetery, the New Cemetery, the Addickes Addition, the Mayes Addition, and the Wildwood Sanctuary.
Notable Burials include Sam Houston, Joshua Houston, Henderson King Yoakum, John W. Thomason, Jr., and George Fitzhugh.
Prior to Texas’ winning independence from Mexico, Huntsville was founded in 1835 by Pleasant Gray. Twelve years later, he deeded the land for the Oakwood Cemetery to Huntsville for “a place of burial free to all persons.”
The cemetery was in use before Gray’s deed, however, and contains a stone dated 1842. Earlier graves were either unmarked, or the markers have long since disappeared.
According to a notice in the local newspaper, Oliver H. Gray, one of Pleasant Gray’s sons, died March 4, 1853, at the age of 18 and is buried in an unmarked grave in Oakwood Cemetery.
Oakwood Cemetery is the final resting place for many people of historical prominence, including 126 Confederate soldiers and possibly more. This step-by-step walking tour will assist you as you explore our fine heritage. (See Confederate Historical Marker)
The Oakwood Cemetery is located a short distance from Huntsville’s downtown square. Travel east on Eleventh Street and turn left on Sam Houston Memorial Drive, once known as “Texas Spur 94,” Texas’ shortest highway.
Do you have facts, stories, or pictures of Oakwood Cemetery? Leave a comment on our page if you do, we would love to hear from you!
