The Chapel is a visitor center where we can, as an act of remembrance, learn about our cultural heritage through the people who were buried in the surrounding cemetery. Genealogy reveals our forebears' influence on the past and future. We share and collect individual narratives to create a framework for the collective human story.
The history of the people buried in Oakwood Cemetery tells the story of Austin. As these people settled in Austin, they helped build the culture of the city, and the Capitol of Texas. Staff research produces digital exhibits which are published quarterly. These exhibits explore a theme. Staff collaborates with community groups and individual subject matter experts to produce content. Cultural events often accompany exhibits.
Oakwood Cemetery holds approximately 23,000 burials within the 40 acres. Approximately 15,000 burials have monuments to mark the location of the burial. All lots were sold to families long ago, but families still bury people in their lots. In 1914, the City of Austin expanded another 18 acres east of Comal Street for the Oakwood Cemetery Annex.
During the Chapel’s public hours, individuals and small groups are welcome to stop by to visit the Chapel and see our exhibits. Many visitors are looking for a specific gravesite, and we are happy to help find it. Maps of the grounds are available in print and online, and we are happy to greet and orient visitors for self-guided tours.
- Oakwood Cemetery Grounds Map (PDF)
- Oakwood Annex Grounds Map (PDF)
- Map of “Historic Old Grounds” (PDF)
Digital Map of Oakwood Cemetery - interactive app for computers and phones: An aerial map of Oakwood Cemetery with lot and section numbers to help visitors find their way around the cemetery.
Past Events
- All Together Here May 2023
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Join us on the journey to explore and honor the people of Oakwood Cemetary: May 19-21, 2023
The event is a public memorial and monument dedication that honors the 36 people recently reinterred in Oakwood Cemetery. The events include guided tours of the Historic Colored Grounds and the Oakwood Chapel, a talk by a historian, a racial healing event, a dedication of the monuments, a walking procession, and a homegoing celebration.
Free & open to the public!
Learn more and RSVP on Eventbrite
