Saving the Western Cemetery

Portland’s Western Cemetery was the primary burial ground for mid 19th century Portland, including many Irish immigrants and Civil War veterans. It was an early example of a park-like cemetery. But the 20th century brought destruction, neglect, and vandalism, and it was even an off leash dog park. Hundreds of headstones were destroyed. But no more. The Stewards of the Western Cemetery are leading a multi-year effort of stone restoration and cleaning, along with landscape and infrastructure improvements, to give new respect to these 19th century Portland people. Come see the changes.