The Beginning
A Cemetery Born of
Springfield’s Growth
In the late 1800s, the growth of Springfield eastward created a pressing need for an additional cemetery. A group of prominent local businessmen answered the call, forming the Oak Grove Cemetery Association and establishing Oak Grove in 1881 — a non-sectarian resting place open to all.
Three years later, in 1884, the cemetery’s most enduring landmarks took shape: the Bay Street Archway, wrought-iron gates, the Brownstone Chapel, and the Tomb were all constructed — establishing the character that defines Oak Grove to this day. Civil War Monuments followed in 1890, honoring those who served.
1884
The Bay Street Archway, Brownstone Chapel, and Tomb were constructed — landmarks that have welcomed visitors for over 140 years.
Founding Members
Oak Grove Cemetery Association, 1881
Daniel B. Wesson
Justin Sackett
Col Thompson
Horace Smith
O. H. Greenleaf
George A. Kibbe
John Olmsted
Gideon Wells
James Kirkham
A Century of Growth
Into the 1900s
Oak Grove grew steadily through the twentieth century, adapting to the evolving needs of the Springfield, Massachusetts community while preserving its historic character.
1943
1956
1966
1970
“Over 140 years of stewardship — adapting to the needs of each generation while preserving the dignity of those who came before.”
Modern Growth
The 1980s & Beyond
Expansion continued through the 1980s and ’90s. In 1993, a Tapley Street entrance with a brownstone facade was added, creating a second gateway into the grounds, though this entrance is not currently open to the public.
The late 1990s brought a wave of development focused on cremation services: Section W was developed for cremation burials, and a Gazebo was erected in 1997, now used for cremation and infant services. A second Gazebo followed in 1999.
That same June, the Niche Garden was dedicated — 102 niches on each side of the Chapel providing above-ground interment for cremated remains. A larger Maintenance Building was constructed in 2001 to support the continued development of the grounds across both locations.
The Bay Street Archway
Then & Now
The Bay Street Archway
Notable Names
Daniel B. Wesson
Co-founder of Smith & Wesson, founding member of Oak Grove
Ancestors of Theodore Geisel
Theodore Geisel is better known as Dr. Seuss.
Harry H. “Bucky” Lew
The first Black professional basketball player
Shirley Jean Measures
Child actress of the early ‘Our Gang’ comedies
Leadership
Board of Directors
Oak Grove Cemetery is operated under the oversight of a volunteer Board of Directors — professionals who bring business and industry experience to guide the superintendent and staff.