Respectful burial of the dead was an important part of the Odd Fellows mission, and land for cemeteries was purchased soon after lodges were established. Sonora Lodge No. 10 established this cemetery in 1856, three years after the lodge's formation. It is one of the oldest cemeteries in Sonora and the final resting place of many of the city's founding members, honored veterans, successful merchants, and prominent citizens, including both IOOF members and people without means to cover their final expenses. Many buried here had colorful histories and were involved with mining during the gold rush era, and at least 17 countries are represented, including Yugoslavia, Prussia, South Africa, Switzerland, and Sweden. Many burial records were destroyed in a fire, leaving over 300 graves unmarked. IOOF Sonora members provide all care and maintenance of the cemetery and hope this peaceful spot allows a connection to ancestors and the rich history they embody.