Nestled in the heart of Colma, California, and serving San Francisco and the Bay Area, Cypress Lawn stands as a testament to over a century of history, artistry, and innovation. Established in 1892, Cypress Lawn has evolved from a serene resting place to a vibrant arboretum and cultural landmark. Let’s journey through some of the most captivating stories that have shaped our legacy.

A Vision of Peace and Beauty

It all began in 1892 with Hamden Holmes Noble. One afternoon, while passing San Francisco’s deteriorating Laurel Hill Cemetery, he envisioned something different: a place of peace and beauty where families could remember their loved ones in a serene, park-like setting. Noble’s vision transformed 150 acres into a living tapestry of carefully planned gardens, majestic trees, and tranquil reflection spots, setting the tone for what would become a nationally recognized cemetery and arboretum.

Architectural Marvels

Cypress Lawn’s landscape is dotted with architectural wonders that tell stories of ambition and artistry. The Lakeside Columbarium, intended to house 10,000 niches, stands as a monument to early 20th-century design, even though the grand vision was never fully realized. Nearby, the Daniel T. Murphy Mausoleum rises like a French Gothic chapel, its stained glass windows designed by Charles J. Connick casting colorful patterns on the stone floors—a reminder that beauty and remembrance can coexist in perfect harmony.

Innovators and Legacy

The park is also the resting place for remarkable innovators. Charles Fey, the inventor of the modern slot machine, found his final home here. His invention would go on to transform the gaming world, and in a quiet corner of Cypress Lawn, his legacy endures—a subtle reminder that lives of creativity and courage leave lasting marks, both seen and unseen.

Stories in Every Corner

Everywhere you look, stories unfold in unexpected ways. A bronze dog statue now stands in the park as a tribute to loyalty and love, accompanied by a verse from the book Beautiful Joe. Planted decades before the first burials, the trees themselves hold stories, growing into a majestic arboretum cared for by generations of caretakers.

A Living Chronicle

Cypress Lawn is more than a cemetery; it’s a living chronicle. Each monument, statue, and tree carries a story, capturing lives of significance, love, and legacy. Visitors often find themselves pausing, reading names and inscriptions, imagining the lives behind them, and walking away with a sense of connection to the past.

Over the decades, Cypress Lawn has become a place where history, artistry, and memory intertwine—a sanctuary where stories endure, and where every path leads to reflection, inspiration, and remembrance.

Visit our location in Colma and experience Cypress Lawn’s vibrant stories with you and your loved ones.