Oaklawn Cemetery
Tampa's oldest cemetery, a historical tapestry of pioneers, pirates, and poignant stories from the city's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Oaklawn Cemetery
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tampa's oldest cemetery, a historical tapestry of pioneers, pirates, and poignant stories from the city's past.
"A great place to visit if you're into Tampa history. It's Tampa's oldest cemetery."
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress modestly and comfortably for walking. Avoid disruptive clothing. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Use a Map
Oaklawn Cemetery is large. Grab a map or use an app to navigate and find specific graves. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tampa's Founding Figures
Various sections
Discover the final resting places of Tampa's pioneers, including the founder of Ybor City and its first lawyer.
Echoes of History
Various sections
Explore graves of Confederate soldiers, yellow fever victims, and shipwreck casualties, each with a unique story.
Poignant Slave Memorials
Slave section
Witness simple headstones marking the lives of enslaved individuals, a somber reminder of a difficult past.
Interracial Burial Site
William Ashley's grave
See the unique grave of William Ashley, buried with his former servant and partner, a significant historical marker.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Uncovering Tampa's Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress modestly and comfortably for walking. Avoid disruptive clothing. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Use a Map
Oaklawn Cemetery is large. Grab a map or use an app to navigate and find specific graves. :iphone:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water. There are limited facilities. :water_wave:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture the history respectfully. Avoid disturbing other visitors or gravesites. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress modestly and comfortably for walking. Avoid disruptive clothing. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Use a Map
Oaklawn Cemetery is large. Grab a map or use an app to navigate and find specific graves. :iphone:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water. There are limited facilities. :water_wave:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture the history respectfully. Avoid disturbing other visitors or gravesites. :camerawithflash:
🧐 Research Ahead
Learn about notable figures buried here to enrich your visit. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oaklawn Cemetery is lauded as a significant historical landmark, offering a deep dive into Tampa's past with its diverse array of notable figures and poignant stories. Visitors appreciate its historical richness and the peaceful, albeit sometimes unkempt, atmosphere. However, some note the need for better maintenance and advise against nighttime visits due to security concerns.
"A place to memorialize a bygone time in History.A place for the living. A place of peace. A place of once upon a time."
U.S.A.
"This is a great place to visit if you're into Tampa history. It's Tampa's oldest cemetery, located in what was once the northern outskirts of town. Oaklawn has grown to encompass other smaller cemeteries on this block, like the old St. Louis Catholic Cemetery. You can find former mayors, governors, Confederate soldiers, yellow fever victims, shipwreck casualties, Cuban pirates, a once-prominent Tampa mobster who was murdered, and Hillsborough County's first pioneer family. The grave of William Ashley is located here, which is interesting due to the fact that he is buried with his ex-servant turned partner, making this possibly the first interracial burial in Tampa. On a more poignant note, there are a few graves of slaves, with headstones simply listing their first name, year of death, and method of death: hanging.
Despite being across the street from the HARTline terminal, a few blocks from the I-4/275 ramps, and right by all the hustle and traffic of Downtown Tampa, Oaklawn is able to retain a somewhat peaceful charm. The cemetery itself is safe during the day, but I wouldn't visit it at night. The city locks it up and patrols it, but there is evidence of some homeless people sneaking in and sleeping there at night.
Overall, Oaklawn Cemetery is a must-see place for anyone who is into Tampa and Florida history, as well as those who claim that Tampa has no history dating from before air-conditioning was invented."
Andy Callahan
"There is a lot of Tampa and Florida history here. This cemetery brings the past to life. I recommend it to everyone even if you don't like history or you feel uncomfortable at cemeteries."
Justin Waters
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oaklawn Cemetery is conveniently located near downtown Tampa, accessible by car and public transport. It's close to the HARTline terminal and major highway ramps.
Yes, the cemetery is located near the HARTline terminal, making it accessible via bus routes. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Limited parking is available on-site. Consider arriving early, especially on weekends, or exploring alternative transportation methods.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy biking to Oaklawn Cemetery, as it's part of a historical route that includes Ybor City and the Tampa Riverwalk.
During the day, Oaklawn Cemetery is generally considered safe. However, it's not recommended to visit at night due to potential security concerns and the city locking up the grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Oaklawn Cemetery is generally free to enter during its operating hours. It functions as a park with historical significance.
Oaklawn Cemetery observes park hours, typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's always best to confirm current hours before your visit, as they can vary.
Nighttime visits are generally not permitted. The cemetery is locked up and patrolled after dark.
Yes, guided tours are sometimes offered, providing in-depth historical insights. Keep an eye on local historical society or tourism websites for announcements.
There is no admission fee to enter Oaklawn Cemetery. It's a public space for historical exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Oaklawn Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures, including Tampa's founders, Confederate soldiers, yellow fever victims, and even a mobster. It's a significant historical landmark.
It's Tampa's oldest cemetery and a vital historical site, preserving the stories of diverse individuals who shaped the city's past, from pioneers to slaves.
Photography is permitted, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid disturbing graves or other visitors.
Facilities are limited. It's advisable to bring your own water and any other necessities you might need for your visit.
While efforts are made to maintain it, some visitors note that the cemetery could benefit from more extensive upkeep. However, it retains a peaceful, historic charm.
📸 📸 Photography
The old oak trees with Spanish moss, the diverse gravestone styles, and the historical markers offer numerous photographic opportunities. Look for unique inscriptions and weathered monuments.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with cemetery management or local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Many visitors focus on historical and architectural photography, capturing the aged monuments and the atmospheric beauty of the cemetery. Some also engage in paranormal photography.
While generally allowed, be mindful of the solemnity of the location. Avoid intrusive photography and always respect the privacy of any ongoing services or visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots. The golden hour can highlight the textures of the old headstones and trees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tulsa Race Massacre Connection
+2This ongoing work is crucial for honoring the victims and bringing closure to their descendants. The identification of individuals like C.L. Daniel, a WWI veteran, through this investigation highlights the importance of Oaklawn Cemetery as a site of historical remembrance and reconciliation.
The efforts to uncover these hidden stories are a testament to the cemetery's role in preserving difficult but vital parts of American history.For those interested in this aspect of Oaklawn Cemetery, it's a place to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit and the ongoing pursuit of justice and historical truth. The research and discoveries made here are significant for understanding the full scope of the Tulsa Race Massacre.
+2A Tapestry of Tampa's History
Within its grounds lie the stories of individuals who shaped Tampa, from its earliest pioneers and founding families to those who faced hardship and tragedy.You'll find the graves of former mayors and governors, alongside those of Confederate soldiers and victims of the devastating yellow fever epidemic. The cemetery also bears witness to the lives of shipwreck casualties and even a prominent Tampa mobster. A particularly poignant aspect is the grave of William Ashley, buried with his former servant and partner, marking a potentially significant early instance of interracial burial in Tampa.
The cemetery also holds the solemn graves of enslaved individuals, often marked with only their first name, year of death, and cause of death, such as 'hanging.' This serves as a stark reminder of the complex social history of the region. Despite its proximity to the bustling city, Oaklawn Cemetery retains a peaceful, southern charm, with ancient oak trees and Spanish moss creating a unique atmosphere.
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