The Texas State Cemetery is a beautifully manicured and maintained property rich with Austin Texas history. Actually, as the name implies, the cemetery isn’t just for famous Austinites. The official website states that the goal of the cemetery is to “serve as a tribute to the many people who have made Texas famous throughout the world.”
Located just east of downtown, this is a nice place to visit for locals and tourists alike. Admission is free and the parking along the outside streets is usually plentiful. It’s a little off the Austin Tourism beaten path, but be sure to add it to your Austin Things To Do list nonetheless.
The first thing you’ll notice is how beautiful the grounds are. The Texas State Cemetery is as well maintained as any private golf course. My initial reaction the first time I visited? “What a great place to spend eternity.”
The cemetery is a fantastic place to visit on a cool spring or fall day or early summer morning. Also, be sure to check out the air-conditioned visitor center (only open M-F) for additional historical information and background (and for a much-appreciated water fountain on those hot summer days).
Additionally, the cemetery has become the location in recent years of brief ceremonies commemorating Texas Independence Day each year on March 2nd.
Who is Buried at Texas State Cemetery?
So, for the history buffs, who is actually buried here? There are some pretty prominent residents. Most notably, Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas” and namesake of the city.
The first person to be buried at the cemetery was Edward Burleson in 1851, a former General, Vice President of the Republic, and state legislator. (Stephen F. Austin wasn’t reinterred here until the early 20th century).
There are currently 11 governors interred, including John Connolly, as well as the influential Lt. Governor Bob Bullock (who actually initiated a major three-year renovation to the cemetery back in 1994).
The cemetery is also home to numerous judges, legislators (Texas and the U.S.), Republic of Texas veterans, Confederate Generals, World War II veterans, and any other number of prominent and influential Texans.
Additionally, there are also monuments paying tribute to veterans of World War II, the Vietnam War, and a tribute to those Texans who were killed in the 9/11 attacks.
Texas State Cemetery – Map
LOCATION
909 Navasota ST
Austin Texas 78702
PH: 512-463-0605
- Cemetery Hours: Open Daily 8am – 5pm
- Visitor Center Hours: Open M-F 8am-5pm
- Admissions – Free
- Note: The cemetery is closed to the public during funeral services.