Tucson’s Forgotten Cemeteries

As we reflect on those who have passed during the All Souls Procession on Sunday, it is also a time to remember those who came before us, including those unknown souls resting in Tucson’s earlier cemeteries. Generations of Tucsonans may be familiar with the two main cemeteries in the city, Evergreen Mortuary and Cemetery and Holy Hope Cemetery on North Oracle Road. But what of the three cemeteries that preceded them and those who are still buried there? Native American burial sites aside, the presidio grew into a town, then into a city. First, there was the Presidio Cemetery, followed by The Cemetery/National Cemetery, and then finally, the Court Street Cemetery. As land close to the downtown area became valuable, the cemeteries were moved further north. Cost made it difficult for families to move their loved ones; others had no families or friends alive to move their bodies. So, thousands of the people buried ages ago, are still there, under streets, parking lots and, in the case of the Court Street Cemetery, homes. Thanks to Homer Thiel, a senior project director with Desert Archaeology, Inc., for providing information on Tucson’s cemeteries. Video by A.E. Araiza / Arizona Daily Star