Architectural Inspiration at Ferncliff Cemetery and Arboretum
Nestled in the heart of Springfield, Ohio, surrounded by a stately wrought iron fence, Ferncliff Cemetery and Arboretum stands as a testament to architectural elegance and historical significance.
Established in 1863, this serene landscape offers so much more than a final resting place; it serves as a canvas showcasing diverse architectural styles that inspire and captivate those that visit the grounds. From stately mausoleums and intricate monuments, Ferncliff is a remarkable site where art, history, and remembrance intertwine into a beautiful masterpiece.
The Mausoleums of Ferncliff: A Reflection of Architectural Grandeur
Mausoleums at Ferncliff are not merely resting places but reflections of the architectural trends that shaped their time. These structures stand as grand tributes to the individuals and families they memorialize and showcase styles ranging from Gothic Revival to Egyptian Revival.
Bookwalter-Leffel Mausoleum: A Gothic Masterpiece
Completed in 1879, the Bookwalter-Leffel Mausoleum is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed by Charles Creager (who also designed the superintendent’s home built in 1890), this limestone and sandstone structure features ornate buttresses, pointed arches, and a towering 15-foot entrance, making it one of the most distinguished structures at Ferncliff.
McGilvray Mausoleum: The Elegance of Egyptian Revival
In the early 20th century, the Egyptian Revival style swept through America, and in keeping with the times, in 1922, Addie McGilvray commissioned the building of the McGilvray Mausoleum. The structure was built in memory of her husband, Charles, and is made of solid Victoria white granite, featuring lotus flower motifs, symbolizing rebirth, and a winged sun disk, an emblem meant to provide protection.
Bushnell Mausoleum: A Greek Revival Icon
The Bushnell Mausoleum, built in 1898, pays homage to Greek Revival architecture, boasting 24 white marble columns reminiscent of the Parthenon. Constructed for Asa Bushnell, a former Ohio governor and prominent businessman, this mausoleum reflects the classical ideals of balance, proportion, and permanence.
Monuments and Memorials: A Tapestry of Styles
Beyond its impressive mausoleums, Ferncliff features a variety of monuments and memorials, each constructed in varying classic designs and architecture.
Art Deco Influences: The monument dedicated to architect William K. Shilling, located in Section A, is a striking example of Art Deco design, characterized by clean lines, geometric patterns, and stylized motifs. This movement, which gained popularity in the early 20th century, emphasized elegance and modernity. Shilling designed the cemetery’s administrative building at the McCreight Avenue entrance, which was completed in 1931. - Greco-Roman Design: The Baldwin Family Mausoleum incorporates elements of Greek and Roman architecture – a simulated keystone at the top of a primitive Greek doorway is a common style found throughout the grounds.
- Obelisks, Classical Monuments, and Symbols: Scattered throughout the cemetery, towering obelisks, a form borrowed from ancient Egyptian architecture, serve as symbols of strength and endurance. Classical influences can also be seen in sculpted angels, Grecian urns, and pedimented tombstones that echo Roman and Greek aesthetics. A walking tour of the grounds will reveal some of history’s most popular gravestone etchings and symbols.
Inspiration Through Time: Virtual Tours and Inspiring Text
For those unable to visit in person, virtual tours, generously produced through a partnership between Westcott Center for Architecture + Design and the Turner Foundation, offer an immersive way to explore the architectural beauty of Ferncliff Cemetery and Arboretum from anywhere.
Additionally, those interested in a deeper dive into the cemetery’s history and artistry can explore the book Beautiful Ferncliff: Springfield, Ohio’s Historic Cemetery & Arboretum. This visually rich publication delves into the funerary art, architecture, and symbolism that make Ferncliff Cemetery and Arboretum a unique and inspiring place to visit.
A Living Legacy
Ferncliff Cemetery and Arboretum is more than a resting place; it is a source of architectural inspiration and historical reflection. Its mausoleums, monuments, and landscaped pathways serve as reminders of the artistry and craftsmanship that have shaped memorial architecture through the centuries. Whether visiting in person or virtually, one cannot help but be inspired by the beauty and significance of this remarkable community landmark.
