About Ferncliff

The legacy of Springfield, Ohio's beautiful Ferncliff Cemetery & Arboretum began in 1863 when a tract of 70 prime acres of land were purchased with $300.00 from each of the founding members of the cemetery. Subsequently, a charter was obtained from the state of Ohio that secured the use and enjoyment of this special place for future generations.

From its inception, Ferncliff Cemetery (as it was known then) has been a nonprofit organization, and was incorporated as such from day one. Also at that time, the Ferncliff Cemetery Association was established, consisting of 25 men and women that were all lot owners in the cemetery. Association members elect any new members to fill vacancies and elect nine of their fellow members to serve as trustees to perform cemetery governance. The personal connections of association members to the grounds, to this day, ensure that any decisions made are in the best interest of the cemetery.

Today, members of Ferncliff's Board of Trustees serve without compensation and are committed to maintaining its historically high standards. Ferncliff is funded largely by the sale of burial lots, and currently contains twenty open acres of land to sustain its public service as a revered final resting place for additional residents for at least the entirety of the next century. Once expenses are paid, all remaining proceeds from lot sales and other sources are invested with the income generated by these investments directed towards perpetual site maintenance. Because of this nonprofit operation, lot owners and their descendants are guaranteed that their resting places are given continual care as the Ferncliff Cemetery & Arboretum grounds are perpetually improved, enlarged, and beautified.
Ferncliff's grounds are bountiful, with a wide variety of flowering trees and blooming shrubs blending with the gentle contours and winding drives of its acreage. These supremely maintained premises invite community members to visit regularly and to explore the beauty of nature in a wide variety of ways. Ferncliff's richly endowed grounds also offer tranquil beauty and comfort to the friends and loved ones of those abiding within its gates.

Visitors are always welcome, to honor friends and loved ones who lie at rest, or to partake in the scenic wonders of Ferncliff's grounds. Groups interested in historical or arboretum tours may contact the Ferncliff Office. Informative brochures are available at no charge in the main office as well.