Collection: Highland Memory Gardens - Des Moines

In 1929, just after the stock market crash, a non-profit was formed to create a private cemetery north of Des Moines. Originally named Magnolia Memorial Park, the cemetery was established with 40 acres of land sold by Edward and Abbie Evans. The first burial occurred in 1930 in the Prayer Garden. In 1935, it was renamed Highland Memory Gardens, known for its Memorial Park style with flat bronze memorials. Des Moines philanthropist F.W. Fitch played a crucial role in its early survival, helping to build the Tower of Memories, a central landmark. Over the years, the cemetery expanded, faced challenges with trust fund mismanagement, and underwent significant restoration of the Tower in the early 2000s. Today, Highland Memory Gardens continues as a peaceful final resting place, with ongoing plans for expansion.