Mount Vernon Cemetery in Philadelphia, originally listed for million, has been sold for just .

In recent days, an exploration of New Jersey’s first green burial preserve has prompted reflections on the nature of cemeteries and their potential for transformation. Situated amidst three miles of moss-covered trails, Steelmantown Cemetery in Woodbine has redefined the traditional perception of burial grounds, offering an experience that intertwines nature and remembrance in a striking manner. This cemetery features graves that appear like hidden treasures among lush greenery and trails, with headstones often embellished with playful inscriptions that evoke a sense of humor about mortality.

The owner of this innovative burial site, Ed Bixby, has recently taken over the Mount Vernon Cemetery in North Philadelphia, a property that has garnered attention for its current state of disrepair and significant historical value. Mount Vernon spans 26 acres and is home to around 33,000 graves, including those of prominent figures from the Drew and Barrymore acting dynasties and soldiers from both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Although listed for sale for million on Zillow last year, the cemetery’s appeal was diminished by its condition, often described as a “green inferno” due to overgrowth and lack of maintenance.

Bixby’s acquisition of Mount Vernon, completed for the nominal fee of , came with the understanding that all financial encumbrances would be resolved. His vision for the site includes a hybrid cemetery model that preserves the existing grounds while incorporating natural burial sites akin to those found at Steelmantown. The transformation will aim to restore this historic cemetery, turning it into a space that fosters community engagement, including walking trails and natural park areas, and possibly featuring new burial sites.

The Mount Vernon Cemetery is not merely a resting place; it carries significant historical narratives. The cemetery was placed under conservatorship in 2021 due to neglect and inaccessibility, exacerbated by its last owner’s failure to maintain the property. The Philadelphia Community Development Coalition intervened to protect Mount Vernon’s legacy but faced challenges in securing a permanent steward until Bixby’s willingness to undertake the restoration.

Bixby envisions extensive renovations, projecting a financial estimate of between 0,000 to 0,000 to rejuvenate the cemetery and restore its infrastructure, including the historic gatehouse. He plans to implement modern practices to ensure maintenance and sustainability, gaining support from organizations like the Friends of Mount Vernon Cemetery, who will continue to archive its rich history.

As Bixby embarks on this ambitious journey, he reflects on how transformation is possible even in death. His experience in the cemetery sector stems from a desire to create spaces that honor both the deceased and the living, fostering a sense of community while maintaining a commitment to environmental sustainability. The Mount Vernon project stands as a testament to the potential for places long forgotten to be reborn as vital community resources, a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, renewal can be achieved.

In a broader context, this initiative highlights an emerging trend in burial practices that prioritize green and natural burials, aligning with contemporary values of sustainability and connection to nature. The vision for Mount Vernon is not only about restoration but also about redefining the role of cemeteries in society, transforming them from mere final resting places into dynamic spaces for healing and reflection. As Ed Bixby steps into this new chapter, he aims to set a precedent that could inspire similar revitalization efforts nationwide, pointing toward a future where cemeteries serve as integral parts of the community landscape.

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