Lee Mission Cemetery
Salem's oldest cemetery, a National Register site with historic grave markers dating back to the late 1800s.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Lee Mission Cemetery
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Salem's oldest cemetery, a National Register site with historic grave markers dating back to the late 1800s.
"A historic site worth visiting, offering a quiet walk and a tangible connection to Oregon's past."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike
Enjoy a peaceful stroll or bike ride through the historic grounds.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 15 reviews
Type
Cemetery
Website
leemissioncemetery.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Grave Markers
Throughout the cemetery
Discover weathered stones from the late 1800s, telling stories of Salem's earliest residents.
Salem's Oldest Cemetery
Main entrance area
Experience the unique ambiance of Oregon's historic burial ground, established in 1842.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Various sections
Enjoy a quiet walk or bike ride amidst the serene, well-maintained grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Historic Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike
Enjoy a peaceful stroll or bike ride through the historic grounds.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site.
Creepy stuff in Salem or around the area
Anybody know of any creepy haunted or abandon looking for feeling things in the area I’m very fond of this type of stuff lmk
🧐 Learn the History
Visit the Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health nearby for added context.
🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of rest; treat it with the utmost respect.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike
Enjoy a peaceful stroll or bike ride through the historic grounds.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site.
🧐 Learn the History
Visit the Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health nearby for added context.
🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of rest; treat it with the utmost respect.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Lee Mission Cemetery to be a well-maintained and historically significant site, offering a peaceful atmosphere for walks and reflection. Many appreciate the old grave markers and the connection to Salem's past, though some note the importance of respectful visitation due to past vandalism. It's considered a valuable piece of Oregon history.
"This was a really nice cemetery. The grounds are kept very clean. Really interesting to see all the old grave markers. Plenty from the late 1800's. Makes me wonder what it looked like back then."
John Mullen
"This is a very impressive cemetery. I walked through Lee Mission cemetery as a boy and was always impressed with feel and ambience of the area. In later years as an Oregon licensed funeral director, I supervised many graveside services and interments in this cemetery.
Many seem surprised when they find out it is Salem's oldest cemetery. I enjoyed visiting the cemetery so much, I actually purchased burial space in the cemetery in the 1980's for my wife and I. Though not a perpetual care funded cemetery, there are decades of burial space sales in the future to offset care expenses. It remains one of the best values in earth burial around. It is a historic site worth visiting."
Jay Doland
"Lee Mission Cemetery was established in 1842 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978."
Cam Kay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lee Mission Cemetery is located in Salem, Oregon. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.
Yes, it's conveniently located near the Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health, making it easy to combine visits for a deeper dive into local history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lee Mission Cemetery is a historic site and generally does not have an entrance fee for visitors. It's open for respectful exploration during daylight hours.
While there are no strict posted hours, it's best to visit during daylight hours to safely navigate the grounds and appreciate the historic markers.
Photography is generally permitted, but visitors are reminded to be respectful of the solemn nature of the cemetery. Avoid intrusive photography and always be mindful of ongoing services or visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Established in 1842, Lee Mission Cemetery is Salem's oldest cemetery and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It holds the graves of many of the region's early settlers and pioneers.
While official guided tours may not be regularly scheduled, the cemetery's historical significance is evident in its markers. Visitors can explore at their own pace and research the history beforehand.
Some visitors have reported a unique ambiance, but many reviews suggest it's a peaceful place rather than actively haunted. It's a historic site with a rich past.
You'll find a variety of old grave markers, many dating back to the late 1800s, offering a glimpse into the past. The grounds are generally well-maintained.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
Salem offers various dining options. You can find cafes, restaurants, and eateries in the downtown area or closer to the cemetery, depending on your preference.
📸 📸 Photography
The old, weathered grave markers and the mature trees offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The overall historic ambiance provides a unique backdrop.
Regulations regarding drone usage in cemeteries can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances or contact cemetery management before flying a drone.
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