Green Ridge Cemetery

Green Ridge Cemetery and Arboretum, located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, covers approximately 33 acres of beautiful landscape. Established in 1838 with the burial of Catherine Durkee and subsequent donation of surrounding park like land by her husband, Senator Charles Durkee, the cemetery continues its primary purpose as a final resting place for Kenoshans. In 1906, the “City Cemetery” was transitioned to the Kenosha Cemetery Association, a non-profit 501 (c) 13. At the time funds were set aside to upgrade the grounds with stone and wrought iron fencing and a stone office building and to maintain the parklike atmosphere. Many trees were planted. Over time the cemetery has made sure that the trees were cared for and replaced as needed with a focus on trees and shrubs native to the area.

From the beginning, the early founders/movers and shakers of the town chose to be buried at Green Ridge Cemetery as it has become known. Since the mid 2010’s a specific focus has been on creating an eco-friendly environment for the many creatures who inhabit or visit the grounds. Utilizing native plants for beauty and ground cover, developing a Native Prairie/Native Plant restoration area and monitoring the health our trees has maintained the peaceful, parklike surroundings.