Mount Moriah Cemetery has a long and complex history. Over the years, we have received many inquiries about the cemetery, The Friends organization, and the work being done to preserve this important piece of Philadelphia’s history.

We created this FAQ to provide answers to some of the most common questions we receive and to help share a better understanding of Mount Moriah, its history, and the ongoing efforts to care for the grounds.

What is the history of Mount Moriah?

Founded in 1855, Mount Moriah Cemetery is one of the nation’s oldest rural cemeteries and the largest in Pennsylvania. Spanning nearly 200 acres, the cemetery is the final resting place of approximately 150,000 individuals. Mount Moriah was established as a non-denominational cemetery that welcomed people of all races, backgrounds, and economic circumstances.

After the original owner passed away in 2004, a remaining employee continued operations informally until 2011. In the years that followed, regular upkeep declined, leaving the grounds overgrown and many of the cemetery’s historic structures, including the gatehouse, in poor condition. These issues were compounded by the former owner’s mismanagement and misuse of perpetual care funds (money set aside for the ongoing maintenance and care).

Who are The Friends of Mount Moriah Cemetery?

In response to these conditions, The Friends of Mount Moriah is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization was formed in April 2011 as a citizen-led effort to begin improving the cemetery. Run entirely by unpaid volunteers, our mission is to ensure access to the site, preserve its monuments and structures, and offer programming that fosters awareness and appreciation of local history, as well as the importance of nature and conservation.

We are a diverse group with a wide range of skills and a shared passion for history and genealogy. Some volunteers are out on the grounds every weekend mowing, clearing, cleaning, and resetting stones. Others focus on the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the organization running, including marketing, finances, and community outreach.

Who owns Mount Moriah Cemetery?

Mount Moriah Cemetery does not currently have a private owner. In 2014, the property was placed into receivership, a legal process in which a court assigns oversight of a property to ensure it is properly managed.

Within this structure, The Friends of Mount Moriah are permitted to handle maintenance, restoration, and general care of the grounds. However, activities such as burials, exhumations, and the replacement of grave markers require court approval. While The Friends play a major role in caring for the cemetery, they do not own it.

How do I find where my loved ones are buried?

First, you can start by checking the Find a Grave app (iPhone, Android) or website.  There are many memorials, burial details, and even photos listed there to search through.

If you don’t have any luck on Find a Grave, you’re also welcome to send the information you have (full name, date of birth, date of death, etc.), you can reach out to us using our contact page.

You can also join the Friends of Mount Moriah Cemetery Facebook group. Our community is very helpful and may be able to assist.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways to support the work of The Friends of Mount Moriah. Join us at one of our volunteer cleanup events, lend your time and skills to help with ongoing projects, or simply visit the cemetery and learn more about its history. You can also help spread the word by sharing our work with others, following us on social media, or making a donation to support restoration and preservation efforts.

Preserving a place with nearly two centuries of history is a community effort, and every person who learns, shares, volunteers, or donates helps ensure Mount Moriah continues to thrive for for generations to come.