Paths in History

Oakwood is a living part of historic Fort Worth. Its rustic paths meander through memories with the names and stories of the earliest founders side by side with those of later generations and through today.

Simple paths dappled with shade from giant oaks and a casual stroll from the past toward today..

Upon the death of his stepson Frank L. Fox, Fort Worth pioneer John Peter Smith donated 20 acres for the cemetery on December 26, 1879. The burial is believed to be the oldest in what was then simply called New Cemetery.

W.T. Waggoner.. Luke Short.. Alfred S. Haynes.. Charles Culberson.. Samuel Burk Burnett.. John Peter Smith.. K.M Van Zandt.. William “Gooseneck Bill” McDonald.. Jim Courtright.. Pete Martinez.. Major Horace Carswell.. Cattle barons, oilmen, politicians, bartenders, bankers and gamblers are here. Some were giants of Texas and Fort Worth history, some were planners, some were dreamers. Their stories are spelled out on monuments and historical markers.

As more and more citizens followed their friends and family across the Trinity to this peaceful spot, the cemetery grew to more than 60 acres in three connected sections and became known as Oakwood.   

In 1908, the non-profit Oakwood Cemetery Association was formed to oversee the maintenance of the grounds and buildings. In 1912 the Oakwood Cemetery Chapel was erected and now, fully renovated, stands proudly at the entry.

Oakwood has been a part of Fort Worth almost from the beginning, Today it reflects the same strong community ties, has the same unassuming beauty and the assurance that its traditions will continue.

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