The Garden of the Dead: The Evolution of New Jersey’s Victorian Cemeteries

In the 19th century, death got a makeover.

Previously, burial grounds were grim, crowded affairs—small churchyards or family plots where the primary goal was efficiency. But as cities grew and sanitation concerns rose, a new philosophy emerged: the Rural Cemetery Movement.

Inspired by English gardens, these new “cemeteries” (a word derived from the Greek for “sleeping place”) were designed as public parks. They featured rolling hills, winding paths, and grand architecture. They were places for the living to picnic, stroll, and admire art, not just to mourn.

Here is a look at three New Jersey cemeteries that showcase this evolution.

1. The Hybrid: Westminster Cemetery (Cranbury, NJ)

Location: Westminster Place and Maplewood Avenue Established: 1838

Westminster Cemetery is a perfect example of a cemetery caught in transition. It started as a traditional churchyard for the Second Presbyterian Church (which split from the First Presbyterian Church in 1838).

The Evolution: The earliest stones near the (now demolished) church site are thin, vertical marble slabs typical of the early 1800s. As you move further out, the markers grow into the grand obelisks and family plots of the Victorian era.
The Design: While it lacks the winding paths of a true “garden cemetery,” it represents the shift away from the austere Puritan style toward the more decorative Victorian approach.
Notable Resident: Col. Edward B.P. Kelley, a Civil War surgeon who was present at Appomattox Court House for General Lee’s surrender.

2. The Transitional Landscape: Allentown Presbyterian Church Cemetery (Allentown, NJ)

Location: High Street Established: 1756

While this cemetery predates the Victorian era by nearly a century, its expansion shows how rural ideals influenced older sites.

The Setting: Situated on a gentle slope overlooking Connie’s Millpond, the cemetery uses the natural landscape to create a sense of peace. The spacing of the stones is open and park-like, inviting visitors to linger under the mature trees.
Notable Resident: Governor William Augustus Newell (1817–1901). A physician and politician, Newell served as the 25th Governor of New Jersey and later as the Governor of the Washington Territory. He is also credited with creating the U.S. Life-Saving Service (the precursor to the Coast Guard) after witnessing a shipwreck off Long Beach Island.

3. The Victorian Masterpiece: Elmwood Cemetery (North Brunswick, NJ)

Location: George’s Road Established: 1868

Elmwood is the real deal—a purpose-built Victorian garden cemetery designed by prominent architect George Parsell. Unlike the previous two, it was never a churchyard; it was a civic institution.

The Design: Winding carriage paths, a Queen Anne-style gatehouse (which still stands), and extensive landscaping were all part of the original plan to create a “city of the dead” that mirrored the beauty of the living world.
The Architecture: The cemetery is filled with high-style mausoleums, including the Greek Revival mausoleum of the Johnson Family (founders of Johnson & Johnson).
Notable Resident: Brigadier General Robert Wood Johnson II (“The General”), who led J&J from 1938 to 1963 and served in WWII.
Notable Resident: Christopher Meyer, a German immigrant and rubber baron who helped found the Michelin Company forerunner. His massive mausoleum dominates the far end of the property.

If You Visit

These cemeteries are active burial grounds, but they also function as open-air museums of art and history.

Etiquette: Walking and photography are generally permitted, but always be respectful of mourners and do not touch fragile stones.
Map It: Elmwood Cemetery offers maps at the office to help locate the graves of Civil War generals and industrial titans.

For More Information

Elmwood Cemetery (www.theelmwoodcemetery.com)