It’s located on the corner of Ross Avenue and Harwood Street and was established by early settlers who wanted to create a final resting place for their loved ones. The cemetery is home to some of Dallas’ earliest pioneers and many other notable figures from its past, including former mayors, governors, business leaders, veterans of wars such as World War II, civil rights activists and more.
The Pioneer Park Cemetery dates back to 1871 when it was first opened for burials by the Town Council of Dallas. At this time, there were only about 5 acres available for use, so it wasn’t long before space began running out. In 1895 an additional 22 acres were purchased which allowed for more burials, but even then space became limited due to overcrowding over time. As a result, many graves had to be moved or relocated in order to make room for new ones.
Today Pioneer Park Cemetery is still open with approximately, 8500 marked grave sites spread across 30 acres of land making it one of the largest cemeteries in Texas. There are also several monuments scattered throughout honouring those who have passed away here, including two statues dedicated specifically to Confederate soldiers as well as numerous memorial plaques commemorating different wars and battles fought throughout history along with various individuals who made significant contributions in their respective fields during their lifetime.
Visiting Pioneer Park Cemetery can be a great way to learn about Dallas’ rich history while paying respects at the same time since many prominent figures from the city’s past are buried here including former mayor Robert S Smith (1898-1902), Governor James Stephen Hogg (1891-95), businessman John Neely Bryan (founder of modern day Dallas) among others all who helped shape what we know today as “Big D”.
