Hollywood Cemetery, Richmond (must see)

Hollywood Cemetery, located on South Cherry Street in the Oregon Hill neighborhood of Richmond, is a prominent 135-acre historic rural cemetery established in 1847. Designed by landscape architect John Notman, this scenic burial ground sits overlooking the picturesque James River. It is notable for being one of the only two cemeteries in the United States, alongside Arlington National Cemetery, to house the graves of two U.S. Presidents: James Monroe and John Tyler.

Richmond's significant role as the capital of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War has deeply influenced the cemetery's heritage. Hollywood Cemetery serves as the final resting place for numerous Confederate officials including President Jefferson Davis and Secretary of War James A. Seddon. It also holds the graves of 25 Confederate Army officers, including generals J.E.B. Stuart, Fitzhugh Lee, and George Pickett.

Notably, the cemetery contains the remains of over 11,000 Confederate soldiers, honored by the Monument of the Confederate War Dead. This striking 90-foot granite pyramid, built in 1869 by Charles H. Dimmock and crafted from James River granite, stands as a memorial inscribed with a Latin dedication to the soldiers' eternal memory. The monument's construction was supported by the Hollywood Ladies' Memorial Association, reflecting the community's ongoing commitment to honoring their legacy.

The cemetery has been a focal point for Confederate Memorial Day commemorations since 1866 and was officially recognized as a site of historic importance when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. Today, Hollywood Cemetery is not only a key historical site but also one of the most visited cemeteries in Virginia, attracting visitors with its rich history and beautiful vistas.

Tips:
The cemetery is one of Richmond's top tourist attractions; it has history, character, and legend. Ghost stories abound. Many different tours are offered, so plan to visit during off-peak hours if you're looking for a quieter stroll. You can walk or drive through the cemetery.

Be sure to stop by the chapel at the entrance, which serves as the office. They have a map that points out the highlights. You can also download a map from their website.