San Francisco History
 

Masonic Cemetery


Dates of Existence: 1854 to 1931
Location: approximately 30 to 38 acres between Turk & Fulton streets, Masonic & Parker Avenues
Number interred: at least 19,900
Moved to: Woodlawn Cemetery, Colma
Notes: was originally a subdivision of the Lone Mountain Cemetery
"THE CEMETERIES.  . . .The Masonic Cemetery lies west of Masonic avenue, between Fulton and Turk streets, and comprises some thirty-eight acres of grounds.  It is elaborately beautified in floral design, and contains many handsome monuments.  The secretary states that there is abundant room for burials for years to come."

Source: San Francisco Morning Call, 14 February 1887.


"Deadline Set for Cemetery Evacuations.  Masonic Association Extends Time for Removals Thirty Days.   Another month will be allowed for removal of bodies by relatives from the Masonic Cemetery, it was announced yesterday by George Skaller, president of the cemetery association.  To inform those who cannot be reached by letter or otherwise, the cemetery directors have ordered a thirty-day campaign.

Already 5600 bodies have be placed in other cemeteries by relatives, mostly in Woodlawn, according to Mr. Skaller.  About 14,300 are left.

Of 5000 letters notifying relatives of the removal conditions, about 2500 have been returned by the postoffice, which has been unable to find the addresses.

Under the removal ordinance, which has been upheld in the United States Supreme Court, the cemetery association is obligated to transfer the bodies.  Those not cared for by relatives will be placed in a special section of Woodlawn Cemetery."

Source: San Francisco Chronicle, 22 December 1931.


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