Cemeteries are more than final resting places – they are reflections of our culture, values and evolving beliefs about life, death and remembrance. Over the past 140-plus years, Woodlawn Cemetery has not only witnessed these shifts, but has embraced them to ensure that generations of families have a place to remember, reflect and celebrate life in ways that resonate with their values.
From Tradition to Innovation
When Woodlawn was founded in 1881 by German immigrants seeking a dignified place to lay their loved ones to rest, burial was straightforward and traditional: in-ground interment with a headstone to mark the spot. For decades, this remained the norm.
But as family structures, religious practices and cultural preferences around Syracuse and Central New York evolved, so too did the needs of those planning for the future.
Adapting to Above-Ground Burial: The Rise of Mausoleums
By the 1970s, Woodlawn saw growing interest in above-ground interment, particularly from the local Italian community. To meet this demand, Woodlawn constructed its first community mausoleum, offering a clean, dry and easily accessible alternative to in-ground burial. Since then, the cemetery has expanded to include four mausoleum complexes with nearly 20 buildings – each beautifully constructed and cared for, year-round.
Mausoleums offer many families comfort and peace of mind. They’re protected from the elements, require less space per interment and are maintained entirely by Woodlawn – easing the burden of care on loved ones.
Meeting the Cremation Trend with Memorialization Solutions
As cremation rates surged, Woodlawn once again led the way. Recognizing that many families struggle with how to respectfully handle cremated remains, the cemetery opened a state-of-the-art Cremation Center offering a wide array of options, from granite-front niches to contemporary glass-front niches, and even space for indoor ceremonies in the center’s dedicated chapel.
These innovations provide families with meaningful, permanent places to visit and remember – a crucial emotional need in any era, family or community that can sometimes be overlooked in the rush of modern life.
Digitizing the Planning Process
Most recently, Woodlawn has embraced the digital age with the launch of its interactive Lot Selector, a unique tool that allows families to view available burial and cremation spaces online, from anywhere. Whether planning from across the country or from the comfort of home, visitors can now explore options, see real-time availability and even initiate purchases online.
This seamless experience reduces barriers for families and represents a bold step forward in how cemeteries serve their communities and Woodlawn was right there for it.
Honoring All Traditions, Serving Every Family
As burial practices have diversified, so have the communities Woodlawn serves. Woodlawn now includes dedicated sections for families of all cultures and faiths, reflecting a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and respect for all who live in Syracuse and Central New York.
This inclusive approach is possible because Woodlawn is a non-profit, non-sectarian cemetery run by a deeply vested board with roots to the community and a perpetual anticipation for its future needs.
A Place to Be Remembered – Now and Always
Woodlawn’s ability to stay ahead of the curve, without losing sight of its past, is what makes it a uniquely comforting place for families today. Whether your preference is traditional burial, mausoleum entombment, cremation or something more personalized, Woodlawn offers flexible options supported by compassionate staff, beautiful surroundings and a deep respect for legacy.
Woodlawn believes every life deserves a place to be remembered. If you’re thinking about pre-planning for yourself or a loved one, there’s no better time to explore your options and no better place than Woodlawn.
