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Planned in 1877 by the Czech community, the Bohemian National Cemetery is a 122-acre garden located on Chicago's north side. The cemetery is the final resting place for over 114,000 people of various ethnic and religious backgrounds, and is still accepting burials. Its extraordinary statuary, fascinating buildings, shade trees and elaborate flower plantings make it a peaceful neighborhood park and outdoor museum.
What is the historical significance of this site?
Organized by the Czech, Moravian and Slovak communities in 1877, the Bohemian National Cemetery is home to a wealth of genealogical information, cultural artifacts and architectural history. The site includes several notable figures in Chicago history, such as its most prominent Bohemian citizen, Mayor Anton Cermak.
What is the current status of the grant?
This project was officially completed in October 2008. Severe deterioration of the roofing and wooden staves of the historic water tank built in 1898 had comprised its ability to draw and hold water, and the damaged platform surrounding the tank made it difficult and dangerous to access for repairs. In the summer of 2008, Carlson Tank Sales & Service Company – one of the few surviving companies still repairing Chicago's hundreds of historic wooden water tanks – reconstructed the platform to provide safe and secure access. The roofing was replaced and the staves of the wooden tank were repaired. The final step of repainting the historic signage on the exterior was completed in October, restoring the Bohemian National Cemetery water tank to its position of prominence as a neighborhood landmark.
Why this site needs your support:
Bohemian National Cemetery is a local landmark and a symbol of pride and honor in the Czech community. Although Partners in Preservation funding largely covers the cost of the water tank restoration, additional restoration projects on some of the Cemetery's important buildings are planned for the future. To make a donation to this project, call Bohemian National Cemetery at (773) 539-8442.
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