The history of Rookwood Cemetery
Rookwood Cemetery, officially known as Rookwood Necropolis, is a large and historic cemetery located in the western suburbs of Sydney, Australia. It is the largest cemetery in the Southern Hemisphere and is considered an important part of Australia's heritage.
Here's a brief overview of its history:
- Establishment: Rookwood Cemetery was established in 1867 to address the overcrowding of existing burial grounds in Sydney. The land was chosen for its accessibility by both road and the Sydney-Parramatta railway line.
- Early Years: Originally known as Haslem's Creek Cemetery, it quickly became the main burial site for Sydney. The cemetery was designed in the Victorian garden cemetery style, featuring landscaped gardens, paths, and chapels.
- Mortuary Railway: A unique feature of Rookwood was its dedicated mortuary railway line, which transported coffins and mourners from Sydney to the cemetery. This service operated from 1867 to 1948.
- Name Change: The surrounding suburb initially adopted the name "Rookwood" after the cemetery, but later changed to Lidcombe to avoid association with death. However, the cemetery retained the name Rookwood.
- Development and Expansion: Over the years, Rookwood Cemetery has expanded and diversified, with sections dedicated to various religious denominations and cultural groups. It also includes war graves and memorials.
- Modern Era: Today, Rookwood Cemetery continues to serve the community as an active burial ground and crematorium. It is also recognized for its historical significance and attracts visitors interested in genealogy, history, and architecture.
