Helping Woodlawn Celestial Gardens

Woodlawn Celestial Gardens is a non-profit that works to restore and preserve the 152-year-old Woodlawn Celestial Gardens (formerly Woodlawn Memorial Park). Once the pride of Compton, Woodlawn fell into ruin as the result of decades of operational and fiscal mismanagement by previous owners.

The group’s goal is to raise $50,000 with the mission of restoring this historical cemetery and ensuring its future. Your support will go directly to the restoration of toppled headstones; damaged fences and roadways; and landscape preservation.

Woodlawn is located in Compton, California. The cemetery was founded in December 1870 as Compton. Rural Cemetery. There are more than 26,000 beings interred on this site including many of regional and national significance. There are more than 940 veterans who served in the War of 1812, the Civil War, Spanish American War, World War I and II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Compton’s most notable founders, pioneers, business leaders, social activists, educators, as well as entertainers and athletes are buried here.

The effort to save and restore Woodlawn began on Mother’s Day 2020 and was led by Celestina Bishop. Within six months the cemetery was cleared of rubbish and overgrowth and the gates were open to the public for the first time in years. In November 2021 the group acquired Woodlawn, saving it from auction by paying more than a decade of past taxes.

Woodlawn Celestial Gardens is committed to restoring the 11.24 acres while preserving the historical value that Woodlawn Celestial Gardens has contributed to the community.

Your help will make this possible and continue to restore the Dignity and Respect that the Beloved resting at Woodlawn Celestial Gardens deserve.

Thank you,

Celestina Bishop

Woodlawn Celestial Gardens

1715 W. Greenleaf Blvd.

Compton, California 90220

Email: [email redacted]

Website:www.woodlawncelestialgardens.com