FAQs

Linwood Cemetery, formerly known as the City Cemetery, is the oldest institution of the Columbus City Government and began functioning four months before the creation of the city. When Georgia General Assembly called for the establishment of a “trading town at the Falls of the Chattahoochee”, five appointed commissioners hired surveyor Edward Lloyd Thomas. Thomas’s son, Truman, who was assisting his father, became ill during the survey and died on March 26, 1828. Thomas buried him in the area of the planned city which was designated as the town cemetery. The location of Truman’s grave is not known.

Renamed in 1894, Linwood Cemetery continues to hold historical significance to this town and community beyond being a burial ground.

This location was called the City Cemetery until 1894 when it was officially designated as Linwood Cemetery. A fashionable suburb known as Linwood, named from a popular novel, Ernest Linwood, by Caroline Lee Hentz who briefly lived in Columbus, was nearby and the cemetery took on that name.

Linwood Cemetery is owned by the City of Columbus, who maintains the landscaping. The Historic Linwood Foundation (HLF), a non-profit organization, sells the plots, maintains the markers, provides tours, puts on social events, and raises funds to preserve the cemetery and its stories for current and future generations.

There is no fee to enter the cemetery, though certain events like the Linwood Ramble require a fee. We do accept donations.

You can review burial records here. Or, please reach out and schedule a meeting with the director of Historic Linwood Foundation who can aid you in your search.

Parking for visitors is available within the grounds on the paved roads. Please be respectful of the plots and grassy areas when you are choosing your spot and ensure that other cars can pass by.

Guided tours can be arranged upon request. Please contact us here.

A diverse range of groups have explored the cemetery, including elementary and college classes, Scout troops, and garden clubs. Reach out to schedule a visit that aligns with your learning goals.

The Lummus Chapel was relocated, restored, and preserved at Linwood Cemetery following discussions that began over scrambled dogs at Dinglewood Pharmacy. Ed Lummus initiated the project inspired by his grandfather, leading to the chapel's donation to the Historic Linwood Foundation in 2005. It is now available to host private events. Please contact the Foundation office for more information.

Yes! We rely on our team of volunteers to fulfill our mission to preserve Historic Linwood Cemetery and its stories for current and future generations. Volunteers lead tours, work on the grounds and provide day-to-day maintenance. Volunteers also lend a hand at the special events hosted throughout the year. Learn more here.

The Lummus Chapel is the hosting site for the Historic Linwood Foundation’s annual Linwood Ramble. It is also available for private events. Learn more about renting out this beautiful space here.

Yes, we’d love for you to join the Historic Linwood Foundation as a member! Please visit here to see our membership levels and benefits.