Walking tour: Symbolism on the Other Side

Discover the hidden corners of our historic cemetery! On this new symbolism tour, you'll cross the Cleveland Bridge to areas rarely explored by visitors to learn some basic symbols and monument styles that have been used over the centuries to artfully express bereavement for loved ones.

Cemeteries often serve as historical and cultural repositories, and the symbols present on tombstones can provide insights into the beliefs, values, and lives of the people buried there.

Embark on a journey through time, discover hidden stories, and unlock the secrets of cemetery symbolism with us.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, art and architcture enthusiasts, families and anyone interested in learning about the mysteries hidden within Forest Home Cemetery.

About your guide

Jennifer Christ is retired from a career in teaching and in lay professional ministry. She currently volunteers as a docent at the Milwaukee Art Museum as well as at Forest Home Cemetery.

Important information

• Unlike our other tours, this one meets on the south side of Cleveland Avenue. Enter Forest Home Cemetery at either the Lincoln Avenue or Forest Home entrance and find the yellow line on the pavement (also on the map - see below). Follow the yellow line south through the cemetery and over the Cleveland Bridge. Please park along the road there and meet your tour guide.
• If you're not familiar with this part of the cemetery, please give yourself some extra time to find the right spot.
• This 1.5-mile walking tour moves at a brisk pace over uneven cemetery roads and grounds. Please wear comfortable footwear and watch your step!
• This tour will run rain or shine and will only be canceled in the event of a dangerous weather event. Tickets are non-refundable.
• If you enjoy your tour, please take a moment afterward to leave a review on Google or TripAdvisor.
• Proceeds from all tours and events help preserve and enhance the historical and natural elements of the cemetery.

About Forest Home Cemetery & Arboretum

Established in 1850, Forest Home Cemetery is Milwaukee’s oldest-operating cemetery, open to people of all faiths, races and backgrounds since its inception. Forest Home Cemetery is on the National Registry of Historic Places and is the finest example of a Victorian-era rural garden cemetery in the Upper Midwest

Milwaukee’s largest green space with more 2,600 trees on nearly 200 acres, Forest Home is the city’s first accredited arboretum and is open daily to the public from dawn to dusk. Leashed dogs, jogging, strollers and bicycles are welcome.

Each year, we host public and private historical and nature-based tours, field trips and teen programs, plus our signature community events: Memorial Day, Doors Open, Dia de los Muertos 5K and Festival, Shakesepeare Festival and Spirits of the Silent City after-dark historical tours.

We have many volunteer opportunities for adults and youth looking for service hours! Email [email protected] to find out more.

Sign up for our newsletter on our website (foresthomecemetery.com) and follow us on Facebook and Instagram so you don’t miss any of our tours and events!

If you enjoy our beautiful space, stay longer! Stop in the office Monday-Friday 8 am–4:30 pm and Saturday 10 am – 3:30 pm , or call a counselor (414) 645-2632 to find out about our many burial options.

Host or Publisher Forest Home Historic Preservation Assoc.