Sacred Ground Since 1911
Nestled beneath the shade of Florida oaks in the heart of Lutz, the Lutz Cemetery serves as a lasting tribute to the people and stories that shaped our community. For more than a century, it has been a place of remembrance, reflection, and honor—preserving the legacy of generations of families who proudly called Lutz home.
The cemetery was established in 1911 when C.E. Thomas, president of the North Tampa Land Company, generously donated the land for a community burial ground. Just a few years later, in 1914, the cemetery welcomed its first burial when Mr. Nims was laid to rest, beginning a tradition of honoring lives and preserving memories that continues to this day.
Over the decades, Lutz Cemetery has grown into more than a resting place—it has become a treasured historical landmark and a symbol of the community’s enduring spirit. Today, the cemetery is proudly operated and maintained by dedicated members of American Legion Post 108 of Land O’ Lakes and the Post 108 Auxiliary. Through countless hours of service, they work to preserve the beauty, dignity, and history of this sacred place, ensuring that the stories of those who came before us will be remembered for generations to come.
Stories from the Stones
"A Cemetery Lot with Every Farm" — C.E. Thomas reportedly offered purchasers of 10 acres of land a free town lot or a burial plot in the cemetery, helping encourage settlement of early Lutz. - The Lutz/Laker News
Community Heritage — The cemetery contains the graves of numerous pioneer families whose names still appear throughout Lutz history, including the Goheen, Vernon, Polen, and Wynn families. - The Lutz/Laker News
The Original Archway — For many years, a metal arch reading "Lutz Cemetery" stood at the entrance. Though it eventually deteriorated, a replica was later erected to honor that piece of cemetery history. - American Legion Post 108
A Cemetery Steeped in Tradition
For more than a century, Lutz Cemetery has reflected the story of the community itself. When the cemetery was established in 1911, the original burial ground was a modest 230-by-80-foot parcel of land donated by C.E. Thomas, president of the North Tampa Land Company. What began as a small community cemetery has grown into one of Lutz's most important historical landmarks.
The cemetery's creation was truly a community effort. Early residents worked together to clear the heavily wooded property, removing massive pine trees by hand. According to local accounts, one particularly large pine stump remained on the property for years and was said to be large enough for six men to stand on at once.
In the early years of Lutz, residents gathered regularly to care for the cemetery. Families would arrive with rakes and hoes, spending the day tending graves and maintaining the grounds before sharing picnic lunches together. These community workdays helped preserve the cemetery while strengthening the bonds among neighbors.
Lutz Cemetery is also a record of the community's pioneer heritage. Many of the area's earliest settlers, educators, business owners, civic leaders, veterans, and multi-generational families are buried here. Walking through the cemetery is like walking through the history of Lutz itself, with each headstone telling part of the story of the people who built and shaped the community.
One of the cemetery's most enduring mysteries is its first known burial. Historical records indicate that a man known only as Mr. Nims was laid to rest here in 1914. Although little is known about his life today, his burial marked the beginning of more than a century of remembrance and service to local families.
Today, under the stewardship of American Legion Post 108, Lutz Cemetery continues its mission of honoring the past while preserving this sacred place for future generations. Through restoration projects, veteran memorial programs, and its designation as a Wreaths Across America cemetery, the legacy of those buried here continues to be remembered and celebrated.
The American Legion’s Stewardship
Since taking over the management and operation of the cemetery, members of the American Legion Post 108 have worked diligently to maintain its historic integrity while ensuring it remains a dignified resting place. Their efforts include:
The Legion’s commitment ensures that the Lutz Cemetery remains a place of respect, memory, and history for generations to come.
Notable Burials and Local Legends
While every grave tells a story, some individuals buried at Lutz Cemetery stand out for their contributions to the community:
Though some inscriptions have faded with time, efforts to document and preserve these stories continue, ensuring that future generations understand the people who shaped Lutz. Our Life's QR Memorial Plaques are an innovative way to share these histories and legacies for future generations.
Learn More about Life's QR and how to get yours:
Do You Have a Story to Share?
Lutz Cemetery is committed to preserving the legacy of all who are interred here. From Lutz founders, to public servants, and military families, we are proud of the people who have made Lutz Cemetery what it is today. There is a plethora of history amongst the headstones - but we want to know the story between the dates. Take a moment to share a story about your loved one at Lutz Cemetery.
