Hollywood Cemetery | Richmond

Hollywood Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in Richmond, Virginia, USA.

It serves as the final resting place for notable figures and offers a landscape of historical monuments and natural features.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery covers approximately 165 acres. It features rolling hills, mature oak and magnolia trees, and a variety of funerary architecture, including obelisks, mausoleums, and granite monuments. The James River is visible from the southern sections, providing a backdrop of water and distant city skyline.

Location & Access Logistics

Hollywood Cemetery is situated at 412 South Cherry Street, Richmond, VA 23220. It is approximately 1.5 miles south of the Richmond city center. Vehicle access is via South Cherry Street, which connects to West Main Street. On-site parking is available within designated areas. Public transport options include GRTC bus lines; Route 11 stops within walking distance of the main entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1847, Hollywood Cemetery was designed by architect John Notman. Its original purpose was to consolidate several smaller cemeteries and provide a prominent burial site for Richmond's prominent citizens. The site itself is part of the Piedmont physiographic province, characterized by its undulating terrain and deciduous forest ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can locate the gravesites of U.S. Presidents James Monroe and John Tyler, Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and over 18,000 Confederate soldiers. The "Grave of the Unknown Soldier" is a significant memorial. Self-guided walking tours are permitted, and guided tours focusing on history and notable residents are offered on specific days and times.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main entrance. Limited shaded areas are provided by the mature tree canopy. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the cemetery. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions or dine in nearby Richmond establishments.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended. The months of April, May, September, and October offer mild weather conditions. No specific tide requirements are applicable.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the "Rebel Witch" of Hollywood Cemetery, a spectral figure, guards the graves of Confederate soldiers. A verified historical oddity is the presence of the tomb of a former slave owner who is buried next to the enslaved people he owned, a testament to the complex social history of the era.

Nearby Landmarks

• Virginia State Capitol (0.8km North)
• American Civil War Museum (1.2km Northeast)
• Edgar Allan Poe Museum (1.5km Northwest)
• Maymont (1.8km Southwest)