Historic Oakland Foundation Announces Plans for Columbarium at Oakland Cemetery
For the first time in over 140 years, Oakland Cemetery is offering a new opportunity for resting spaces on its historic grounds. This marks a significant moment for our 48-acre site, which has been a place of remembrance for Atlantans for over 175 years.
Image is a preliminary rendering and subject to change.
A columbarium is a permanent, above-ground structure with niches designed to hold cremated remains. Building this structure will create new burial options while preserving the Cemetery’s historic landscape. Situated between East Hill and the historic African American Burial Grounds, the project will repurpose an unused roadway into a peaceful memorial garden where visitors can reflect and spend time with loved ones.
The columbarium will be made from granite from Elberton, Georgia, and feature ornate details that mirror iconic monuments at Oakland, integrating it with the Cemetery’s surrounding areas. Nearby gardens and greenery will be planted and maintained in a style inspired by Victorian garden traditions.
Proceeds from sales will help to fund cemetery improvements and Oakland’s endowment, ensuring preservation for generations. The columbarium pre-sale will open at the same time for both Historic Oakland Foundation members and non-members, and welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds.
“This is the first time in nearly 150 years that a new interment space has been available at Oakland,” says Historic Oakland Foundation CEO & President Richard Harker. “It is both a profound milestone and a meaningful way to deepen your connection to this place where Atlanta’s history, beauty, and stories live on.”
Public pre-sale for columbarium niches will begin Wednesday, September 3. Columbarium construction will begin in the fall 2025, with completion estimated for spring 2026. To learn more and provide your contact information to receive important updates related to columbarium at Oakland, please visit the columbarium webpage.
Images above are preliminary renderings and subject to change
