Grave of Isham Green Harris
Memphis, US
- Location
- Memphis, US
- Category
- heritage historic sites
- Coordinates
- 35.121944444, -90.027416666
- Best time
- Morning or early afternoon
- Weather tip
- Check the local forecast before visiting.
Overview
The grave of Isham Green Harris is located within the historic Elmwood Cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee. As one of the most significant burial sites in the region, Elmwood serves as a primary destination for those interested in the post-Civil War era and the political history of the American South. Visitors to the cemetery can explore the ornate funerary architecture and well-preserved landscapes that define this Victorian-era garden cemetery. When planning your trip ideas for exploring Memphis history, a visit to this site offers a somber, reflective look at the life of a man who served as both the Governor of Tennessee and a United States Senator. The site is a notable point of interest for researchers and history enthusiasts alike. Because the cemetery is an active historical site, guests are encouraged to walk the grounds respectfully while observing the markers of various prominent figures buried nearby. For those seeking meaningful places to visit, Elmwood provides an authentic glimpse into the 19th-century social and political fabric of Tennessee. It is recommended to visit during the morning or early afternoon to take full advantage of the natural light for viewing the intricate stonework. Always check the local forecast before visiting to ensure a pleasant walk through the grounds.
General information
The grave of Isham Green Harris is located within the historic Elmwood Cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee. As one of the most significant burial sites in the region, Elmwood serves as a primary destination for those interested in the post-Civil War era and the political history of the American South. Visitors to the cemetery can explore the ornate funerary architecture and well-preserved landscapes that define this Victorian-era garden cemetery. When planning your trip ideas for exploring Memphis history, a visit to this site offers a somber, reflective look at the life of a man who served as both the Governor of Tennessee and a United States Senator. The site is a notable point of interest for researchers and history enthusiasts alike. Because the cemetery is an active historical site, guests are encouraged to walk the grounds respectfully while observing the markers of various prominent figures buried nearby. For those seeking meaningful places to visit, Elmwood provides an authentic glimpse into the 19th-century social and political fabric of Tennessee. It is recommended to visit during the morning or early afternoon to take full advantage of the natural light for viewing the intricate stonework. Always check the local forecast before visiting to ensure a pleasant walk through the grounds.
Did you know
- Isham Green Harris served as the Governor of Tennessee from 1857 to 1862.
- Harris was a staunch supporter of the Confederacy during the American Civil War.
- Elmwood Cemetery, where Harris is buried, was established in 1852 and is the oldest active cemetery in Memphis.
History
Isham Green Harris (1818–1897) was a prominent American politician who played a pivotal role in Tennessee's history during the mid-19th century. He served as the 16th Governor of Tennessee, a tenure marked by his aggressive support for secession and the Confederate cause during the American Civil War. Following the war, Harris lived in exile in Mexico and England before returning to Tennessee in 1867. He eventually resumed his political career, serving as a United States Senator from 1877 until his death in 1897. His interment at Elmwood Cemetery remains a focal point for those studying the political leadership and the turbulent transition period of the Reconstruction era in the American South.
Cultural significance
The grave of Isham Green Harris is culturally significant as a physical manifestation of the political divisions that defined the American Civil War and its aftermath. As a leader who remained committed to the Confederate cause throughout his life, his gravesite serves as a historical touchstone for understanding the complexities of Southern identity and the legacy of the 19th-century political establishment. The site is situated within Elmwood Cemetery, which itself is a cultural landmark, representing the 'rural cemetery' movement of the Victorian era. The cemetery serves as an outdoor museum, reflecting the social hierarchies, mourning customs, and artistic sensibilities of Memphis society during the 1800s.
Geography and landscape
Elmwood Cemetery is located in the southern portion of Memphis, Tennessee, occupying a sprawling, park-like landscape characterized by rolling hills, mature oak trees, and winding pathways. The terrain is typical of the Mississippi River bluff region, providing a quiet, elevated setting that stands in contrast to the surrounding urban environment. The landscape design follows the principles of the 19th-century garden cemetery movement, which prioritized natural beauty and serenity as a means of honoring the deceased. Visitors will find the grounds well-maintained, featuring a diverse collection of funerary monuments ranging from simple headstones to elaborate mausoleums, all set against a backdrop of lush, historic greenery.
More facts
- Imported from Wikidata