Welcome – Franklin Avenue Entrance
Welcome to Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery and the beginning of your tour. This 17-acre site consists of four historic cemeteries: the Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery, the Stanley Cemetery, the Fulkerson Cemetery, and the Moke Cemetery. All were originally operated by various private corporations which eventually went out of business, leaving the cemeteries to fall into terrible disrepair. Vandals had knocked over headstones, scattering pieces throughout. Weeds – as high as 6 ft. – obscured paths and the remains of any monuments.
In 1979, the City of Santa Rosa took over the cemetery by eminent domain. In recognition of the cultural and historic value of this site, volunteers began to work regularly to clear, repair and restore the cemetery to its original beauty.
About 5500 souls rest in this cemetery, the first burial occurring in 1854. As you walk the paths – whether virtually or in person – consider the ordinary and extraordinary life experiences represented by our residents.
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Copyright © 2021 Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery Preservation Committee
1600 Franklin Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
