Just a short drive from historic downtown Charleston SC, on the site of the former rice plantation Magnolia Umbra, one can find a picturesque burial ground, Magnolia Cemetery, situated alongside the banks of the Cooper River. Magnolia Cemetery was opened in 1850 and, under the moss draped oaks and stately magnolias, Charlestonians would travel to picnic, play and visit the burial sites of their loved ones. Named to the National Register of Historic places in 1978, the cemetery covers 92 acres of both paved and dirt roads and winding paths and this 19th century reflection of the funerary arts can be explored by car, bicycle or on foot.

Magnolia Cemetery is one of the country’s most beautiful examples of Victorian cemetery design. It was laid out by Edward C Jones, the noted architect who also designed the United States Custom House on East Bay Street. This scenic, enchanting place is a history buff’s dream. Family plots are enclosed with beautiful wrought iron fencing, and headstones tell many stories. You can find private tombs with Tiffany glass, a personal pyramid, a firetruck, a baby stroller, imported statues and eloquent inscriptions throughout.

Magnolia Cemetery has over 30,000 graves and they include some of Charleston and South Carolina’s most famous residents.  From senators and governors to gamblers and madames, this hallowed ground has a history all its own. On April 17, 2004 it became the final resting place of the crew of the Confederate submarine the H.L. Hunley and over 2,000 more Confederate soldiers are buried in a special Confederate section.

One of the original structures, “The Receiving Tomb, ” is listed as one of the “Seven to Save” by the Preservation Society of Charleston. This building was used as a holding area for the deceased while their permanent resting place was being prepared.

If you’re looking for a spooky cemetery tour Bulldog Tour’s has a Spirits of Magnolia Cemetery Tour that will definitely give you the creeps!

Take an afternoon to enjoy blue herons resting in the marsh, gentle breezes off the river and lose yourself in history. Just a short drive up Meeting Street to the trendy “Neck area ” of the peninsula, you’ll find the entrance to the cemetery.  The cemetery office, which operates out of the original plantation house, is opened Monday-Friday from 8am to 4pm and has walking maps available.

NOTE:  Wagener Terrace, one of the Upper Peninsula’s hottest selling neighborhoods, is located nearby to Magnolia Cemetery.  Most of the homes in this trendy neighborhood were built from the 1920’s-1950s. Many of these homes are now undergoing renovations and have increased significantly in value making Wagener Terrace a desirable location popular with young professionals and families. Learn more about buying in Charleston SC:

Interested in Learning More?

Our expert teams - from development, investment, real estate, and property management - have experienced it all and have the insight to help you along the way.

Find Out More