Wildwood Cemetery, established in 1887, is a private cemetery with a public mission. It aims to preserve its historic grounds while welcoming everyone. Its main purpose is for graves and those who come to mourn, but it’s also open for walkers, naturalists, historians, and for quiet contemplation.

In this column, Wildwood Cemetery General Manager Rebecca Fricke writes about plans for a new pollinator memorial garden, a new roof for the farmhouse, and a new native garden. With this transformation, the cemetery continues to serve as both a space for remembrance and reflection as well as a space for conservation and access to nature.