St Andrew's Cemetery

St Andrew's Cemetery is a stunningly beautiful and historic cemetery just south of downtown Grand Rapids and its St. Andrew's Cathedral. The cemetery is unfortunately kept under lock and key due to several instances of vandalism. However, this should not deter you from visiting, but will necessitate a little planning. Access is gained by obtaining a key through the archivist office at the Diocese of Grand Rapids. Although mostly volunteers, they have been extremely helpful and generous with their time as well as putting in a heroic effort to discover and preserve the early history of Grand Rapids. With a little planning and patience you will be rewarded with an incredible visit to this historic cemetery.

Saint Andrew's Catholic Cemetery was established in 1853 - it is the oldest remaining Catholic Cemetery in Grand Rapids. The cemetery is normally locked, but is open to the public during the Memorial Day period and other days of remembrance. I am a volunteer here, and am always amazed at the beauty and history that I see before me. The cemetery phone number is shown above. The staff has been nothing less than helpful to me.

I have never actually had to use this cemetery but it us always well kept and maintained when I go by so I just wanted to share that

The best that I can discover, this cemetery is always closed and inaccessible. There are high fences with high gates, and the gates are always locked, no matter what time of day. I have been trying for two months to get into this cemetery to fulfill a FindAGrave request for photograph of a headstone. ALWAYS LOCKED!

Nobody can appreciate history and respect those past if it's locked forever. The purpose of cemeteries is for visitation. Violates the literal purpose. Disrespectful in my opinion.