Mini Scavenger Hunt: East Hill
Next time you're at Oakland, see if you can solve these East Hill riddles! 1. Welcome to East Hill! Head to the corner gate to read all about this zone. What’s the name of Chosewood’s daughter resting close? It sounds…
Oakland Cemetery on Postwar “Beautifying” List
During the first 100 years of its operation, Oakland Cemetery grew from a six-acre tract of farmland to its current footprint of 48 acres. By the turn of the 20th century, Oakland had seen a steady decline in both generated…
The Many Birds of Oakland [Bird Bingo Challenge]
Oakland Cemetery's 48 acres of gardens, certified as an Advanced Bird-Friendly Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation, are home to dozens of species of birds. No doubt you've seen mockingbirds perched on statues and heard the cry of red-tailed…
Here Come the Bulbs!
January is cold and gray. That is until you look closely. Hidden under the remaining leaves are the first signs of spring. Look carefully and you will see daffodils and other bulbs sending up new shoots. Give these a few…
Wait, you work at a cemetery? What it’s Like to Intern at Oakland
"Wait, you work at a cemetery?" For the past year and a half, I have been asked this question at least once a week, usually because I am covered in dirt. After responding yes, the next string of questions and…
The Top 10 Things We’re Proud of from 2020
2020 has challenged Historic Oakland Foundation, along with so many nonprofits, in new and untold ways. Happily, we end the year in good standing, though if you had told me in early April that this would be the case, I…
Cemetery Snaps from Oakland’s Virtual Photography Workshop
On November 1, photographers of all skill levels joined Oakland guides on a guided walk through the gardens during golden hour. The evening concluded a five-part virtual photography workshop series. Check out a few of the subjects and scenes that…
5 Winter Garden Tips from HOF Garden Manager Wes Holt
Now that the leaves are down and Jack Frost has killed the annual flowers and laid down the foliage on your perennials, it's time to get the landscape presentable and ready for the new year. These few simple winter tips…
Photos: Oakland in the Snow
Snow doesn't come to Oakland often, but when it does, it transforms its 48 acres into a pristine, otherworldly wonderland of quiet and sparkle. Few have had the opportunity to see Oakland enrobed in white. Enjoy these photos from winters…
What We’re Thankful For
Thanksgiving always provides a moment towards the end of the year for us to pause and reflect on what we're most grateful for, and even during this most trying year, there is so much that I am incredibly thankful for:…