Claquato Cemetery/Sunset Memorial Gardens
142 Stearns Road
Chehalis , Lewis County, Washington 98532
360-748-7755
Also known as IOOF Cemetery.
Directions
The cemetery is located west of Chehalis. From Interstate 5, take the Main Street exit and follow Main Street (Highway 6) west to Stearns Road. The cemetery will be on your right shortly thereafter.
History
The Claquato Cemetery is a testament to the vision of the Davis family, who founded the village of Claquato in 1851. Nestled on a hillside, the cemetery offers stunning views of the Chehalis River valley and the Cascade Mountains, attracting visitors from all over, including descendants of the pioneers buried there.
The cemetery began when Lewis Hawkins Davis donated land for a burial site. The first interment of Mary Spinning was in 1856. Over the years, other pioneer families joined her, and in 1893, the International Order of Odd Fellows expanded the cemetery.
The Claquato Cemetery Association was formed in 1920. Through donations and lot sales, it acquired land from the Davis estate to ensure the grounds’ care. Community support blossomed, enhancing the association’s reputation as the premier cemetery in the area.
Notable improvements over the years include the establishment of a Women’s Auxiliary in 1927, the creation of a Baby Rose Garden, and the dedication of the “Pioneer Tree” in 1937. The cemetery expanded in the 1950s with the addition of Sunset Memorial Gardens and continues to focus on preservation and beauty.
Today, the Claquato Cemetery spans about 70 acres and is dedicated to providing a peaceful final resting place, ensuring its legacy endures while meeting contemporary needs. Visitors are always welcome to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of its grounds.
The original version was written for the Claquato Cemetery by Karen Johnson. I shortened it.
One notable individual buried here is Ralph Julian Rivers, a politician from Alaska.
Additional information
Visit the Claquato Cemetery/Sunset Memorial Gardens Website
