Western Heights Cemetery
#82 of 100 things to do in Dallas
Dallas, Texas is home to a historic and hallowed ground that offers a unique window into the city’s past: Western Heights Cemetery. As one of Dallas County’s oldest cemeteries, established in the 19th century, it serves as the final resting place for early settlers, immigrants, and notable historical figures. A true hidden gem in West Dallas, it provides a peaceful space for reflection, history, and remembrance, all while overlooking the city it helped build.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a fan of “Bonnie and Clyde,” a genealogy researcher, or someone looking for a serene place to reflect, this guide provides everything you need for a meaningful visit.
Key Details at a Glance:
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Address: 1617 Fort Worth Avenue, Dallas, TX 75208
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Established: 1848
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Number of Burials: Over 700 registered gravesites
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Known For: The final resting place of outlaws Clyde Barrow and his brother Buck Barrow, and over 20 military veterans
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Status: Active cemetery
A Walk Through History: From Burial Ground to Historic Landmark
The story of Western Heights Cemetery is the story of Dallas itself. The land’s history as a burial ground began in 1848 with the burial of Augustine Byram, although the land was not formally purchased for $15 and dedicated as a “graveyard forever” until 1881 by early settlers Z.E. Coombes and W.R. Fisher. The 3-acre site sits on a portion of the William Coombs Survey, once part of a thriving farming community.
For over 150 years, the cemetery has been a resting place for the area’s pioneers, including veterans of the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and both World Wars. It has weathered periods of neglect and vandalism but has been undergoing a renaissance, thanks to the dedicated efforts of volunteers and the Western Heights Cemetery Association, which now maintains the site.
What to See: Notable Burials
The cemetery is a final resting place for many of Dallas’s early residents, offering a tangible connection to the city’s history.
🎭 Clyde Barrow
The most famous resident of Western Heights Cemetery is the notorious outlaw Clyde Barrow of the “Bonnie and Clyde” duo. Buried alongside his brother Buck, his grave site is a draw for tourists and history buffs from all over the world. The grave is marked by a headstone that has been cemented into the ground to prevent vandalism and is often adorned with mementos left by visitors. Look for his grave in the southwestern section of the cemetery under a stand of crepe myrtles.
🪖 Military Veterans
The cemetery is the resting place for over 26 known military veterans. Their service spans multiple conflicts, including:
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The Civil War: At least 12 veterans, with both Union and Confederate soldiers represented.
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World War I and World War II: Several veterans from these world wars are also buried here.
Each veteran’s grave has a plaque with a QR code that directs you to more information about the veteran’s life and service.
🏡 Early Dallas Pioneers
The cemetery also holds the remains of many of Dallas’s earliest settlers, including:
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W.R. Fisher and Z.E. Coombes, the men who dedicated the land as a graveyard.
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John and Rosina Loupot, French and Swiss immigrants who were part of the La Reunion colony.
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Mary Ellen Cole Tuggle, one of the first female babies born in Dallas County.
Activities for Adults & Children
Western Heights Cemetery offers a unique and reflective experience for visitors of all ages.
👨🖥️ For Adults: History, Genealogy & Quiet Reflection
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Self-Guided Historical Tour: Explore the grounds to find the final resting places of Clyde Barrow, early pioneers, and the many veterans who served their country.
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Guided Tours: The Western Heights Cemetery Association offers free one-hour guided tours for clubs and organizations. You can also arrange a personalized tour from the caretaker, who is known for sharing fascinating stories of those buried there.
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Genealogy Research: The cemetery is a valuable resource for those tracing their family history in Dallas County.
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Volunteer Opportunities: The cemetery relies heavily on volunteers for maintenance and preservation. This is a meaningful way to give back to the community.
👧 For Children & Families: A Unique History Lesson
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The Clyde Barrow Story: The grave of Clyde Barrow is a tangible connection to a famous and dramatic piece of American history that can be a compelling topic for older children and teenagers.
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Honoring Veterans: The presence of so many veteran graves is a powerful way to teach children about military history and the sacrifices made by those who served.
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A Walk in Nature: The elevated site offers a peaceful walk and views of the Dallas skyline, providing a quiet place for families to explore.
Location & Getting There
📍 Address
1617 Fort Worth Avenue, Dallas, TX 75208
🚗 Driving & Parking
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There is no official parking lot on the cemetery grounds.
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Street parking is available along Fort Worth Avenue and Neal Street, located to the right side of the cemetery.
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The cemetery is situated in an urban environment, so please be aware of your surroundings.
🚆 Public Transit
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The cemetery is accessible via Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) bus routes serving the Fort Worth Avenue corridor.
Visitor Information
Hours of Operation
The cemetery grounds are open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Access & Rules
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The main gate is typically padlocked to prevent vandalism, but there is a small, open gate on the right side of the cemetery that provides access.
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Please be respectful of the grounds and the families of those buried there.
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Caregiver Note: A caretaker named Van is often on-site and is known for providing enthusiastic, history-filled tours to visitors.
What is the Western Heights Cemetery Association?
The Western Heights Cemetery Association (WHCA) was formed in 2026 to assume the maintenance of the historic cemetery, bringing renewed energy and resources to its preservation. The organization is dedicated to protecting the physical integrity of the cemetery, preserving its history, and educating the public about its significance.
Preserving a Piece of Dallas History
The cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it is a vital piece of Dallas’s cultural heritage. By volunteering, donating, or simply visiting, you can help ensure this historic site continues to be a place of remembrance and education for generations to come.
Stay Connected:
Follow Western Heights Cemetery for updates on events, tours, and preservation efforts.
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Official Website: https://westernheightscemetery.org/
If you have any experience with this place, please share it with us in the comments below!
This attraction is part of free things to do in Dallas