Lee County, Iowa

Historical Society

The Oakland Cemetery Initiative was established in 2022 with the goal of placing historical markers at Keokuk's Oakland Cemetery. The markers will educate the community and our visitors while preserving the history of our community.

The History of Oakland Cemetery

Prior to 1850, several burial grounds existed in and around Keokuk. In 1851 the city designated 40 acres of land to establish Oakland Cemetery. Many interments from other cemeteries in the city were moved to Oakland.

A designated section was established for members of the Catholic faith. In 1855, the Jewish community requested an area of land for their burials. In addition to these, Oakland also has special sections known as Babyland and Potter’s Field.

Among those interred at Oakland are soldiers who served in military conflicts foreign and domestic from every period of American history. They are now resting beside civil rights activists, athletes, politicians, and artists of all kinds. Business owners, medical and legal professionals, educators, and religious leaders are also among the cemetery’s permanent residents.

Every burial from unmarked grave to towering mausoleum at Oakland carries a story. Each of them in their own unique way contributed to our community and has made us who we are.​​

How You Can Help

Signs will be acquired through fundraising and donations.

Donations can be mailed to 

Lee County, Iowa Historical Society

Attn: Oakland Cemetery Initiative
P. O. Box 125
Keokuk, IA 52632

PayPal donations can be sent to LCIHSKeokuk@gmail.com

If you are interested in supporting the Oakland Cemetery Initiative through merchandise, mugs, t-shirts, and stickers are now available!

Place your order here.

We thank you for your contributions and your interest in Keokuk's Oakland Cemetery!