Woodlawn Cemetery was formally opened to the public yesterday.

The propositions made by the proprietors to present a last resting place to the soldiers of the Mexican, Indian war and late war that might wish it, also room for another grave which is to be and for the burial of the soldiers wives was offered and the same accepted through representatives of Mexican War, survivors and by the representatives of the Grand army post and Confederate veterans, it being expressly understood that no distinctions are to be made as to whether the soldiers wore the grey or blue in the last conflict.

The cemetery is situated some two miles south of the river, on a beautiful elevation, presenting a view that is grand. A new pike in excellent condition branches off from the Martin Mill road, making it easy of access. It being the only cemetery south of the river there is no doubt but that many who live there or who have lived there and are to in the future, will take advantage of the offers made by the cemetery company and find for themselves and loved ones a last resting place.

The plot of ground set aside for the purpose of a burial ground contains some thirty acres, or 1,800 lots. These lots are large enough to contain fourteen graves each. At the present time only eighteen persons have been buried in the spot which was known as the Owen's family burying ground. In the center it is expected to build some future day a handsome monument or memorial. From the center a certain portion of the ground is laid off in large circles divided by walk and carriage ways, one half of the large circle containing one hundred lots, to be set aside for graves to be given free to the dead who have served in any of the past wars and to their wives.

There were a goodly number of people assembled on this spot yesterday afternoon, when on behalf of the cemetery company, Capt. Rule called the audience to order and after speaking of the beautiful resting places of the dead, with the care taken to have the memories of the loved ones gone before cherished and remembered as indication of Christian civilization, he then in the name of the organization made the offer public so that those who were present could at that time accept or do so at any other time that might suit the people who were desirous of resting in the beautiful spot until that day when the grave shall give up its dead.

Mr. W R Murphy was introduced as a representative of the Grand Army and in suitable terms expressed that thanks of those who wore the blue for the proposition. He felt sure that the same would be accepted in the spirit which had prompted the originators of the cemetery company . . .

Judge J M King followed Commander Murphy and stated that he was not empowered to speak for the confederate veterans as their representatives, yet he felt satisfied that the kind offer would be most cheerfully accepted. . .

The Mexican veterans were called upon, there being five of them present, but as each one claimed to be no speaker, they delegated Capt. Rule to express their thanks and appreciations for the offer. The following survivors of the Mexican War made their selection in a few minutes after when the audience was dismissed. Benjamin Hackney, John Metler, John A Smith, F R E Chanaberry and John Howell.

It is ascertained that a number of lots have been taken by soldiers who are desirous of having their loved ones near them even in death and no doubt many others who will hear of the generous off made by the new Woodlawn cemetery will call and make their selections.

Source: Knoxville Daily Journal -- Sunday, August 12, 1894

Transcribed by Robert McGinnis and used by permission.