It all started when…
The land for the cemetery was purchased in 1943--approximately one and three-quarter acres bounded on the north by Prince Street, the east by Newcastle Street, the south by King Street and the west by Church Street. The physical address of the cemetery is 600 Newcastle Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902. The Cemetery Corporation, a 501(c)(13) tax-exempt organization, was incorporated in 1949 and owns and operates the cemetery.
MASTER PLAN
In 1950 an irrigation system was installed and Robert Marin, renowned landscape architect, was commissioned to create a master landscape plan, install ground cover and plant various trees and shrub. Marvin intentionally left space in the center of the cemetery as a focal point for future development of a visual landmark or signature structure.
THE GAZEBO
Marvin's vision for the center of the cemetery was fulfilled in 1967 when the Lengnick family donated funds for the construction of a gazebo as a visual landmark and memorial to Emilie Guerard Lengnick (1943-1966).
PERIMETER WALL & GATES
A brick wall was installed in the 1960's which completely encloses the cemetery property. Gateway openings were provided at the center of each of the four sides. Concrete walkways extend to the center of the cemetery from each of these gate openings, which are set in with curved walls raising up to the brick gate posts.
CREMATION BURIALS
The majority of the land area is dedicated to traditional casket burials, but a small section is devoted to cremation burials. As the cemetery has matured, a shift in cultural attitudes has resulted in an ever increasing percentage of cremation burials compared to traditional casket burials. With the originally allocated cremation burial space approaching full subscription, the Board of Directors began to look for ways to increase the availability of cremation burial space and to extend the useful life of the cemetery. A two-year project was undertaken to increase the available burial sites and generate additional funds for the perpetual care of this sacred ground, and thus Apostles’ Circle was established in 2015..
