Concordia Cemetery, El Paso

Concordia Cemetery stands as a silent witness to the city's rich tapestry of history. With over 66,000 souls resting within its bounds, this burial ground encapsulates the stories of El Paso's past, from the well-known figures to the forgotten souls. Established in the 1840s on land once belonging to Chihuahua trader Hugh and Juana Stephenson, Concordia Cemetery grew to prominence in the late 19th century, becoming the final resting place for diverse communities.

Originally known as Concordia, the cemetery gained popularity in the 1880s as El Pasoans journeyed miles to lay their loved ones to rest. Over time, various sections were designated for different groups, including Catholics, Masons, Jews, African Americans, Chinese, military personnel, and more. Today, visitors can pay their respects to an array of notable individuals, including gunfighter John Wesley Hardin, Buffalo Soldiers, and Civil War veterans, among others.

Spanning 52 acres, Concordia Cemetery holds a unique distinction as the sole location in Texas with a Chinese burial ground. Additionally, it features designated areas for Freemasons, Mormons, and Jews, reflecting the diverse cultural fabric of El Paso. An "infant nursery" houses unmarked graves, a somber reminder of the 1918 influenza pandemic's toll on the community.

Recognized as the Best Historic Cemetery in the West by True West Magazine, Concordia Cemetery continues to honor El Paso's past while maintaining its legacy for future generations.