Our Story
The Historic Oakwood Cemetery Preservation Association was founded in 1991 as an all-volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation of nearly 160 acres of historic land adjacent to Syracuse University. Since its inception, HOCPA has actively maintained the cemetery, raised funds for the repair of damaged monuments, and provided public tours, transforming the cemetery into a remarkable outdoor museum. The organization publishes a semi-annual newsletter detailing its activities and organizes community clean-up days each spring, known as “Scour the Past.” In 1992, HOCPA began offering guided tours from May through September, showcasing the cemetery's rich history. Thanks to the monumental efforts of HOCPA, Oakwood Cemetery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.