38 Facts About Colma California

Source: Unusualplaces.org

Colma, California—a small town with a big secret. Known as the "City of Souls," this unique place has more residents underground than above. Why? Because Colma is home to 17 cemeteries, making it a resting place for over 1.5 million departed souls. Founded in 1924, this town was created to house the deceased from San Francisco, which banned new burials. With a living population of around 1,500, Colma offers a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. Ever wondered what it's like to live in a town where the dead outnumber the living? Let's dive into 38 intriguing facts about Colma, California, and uncover its fascinating history.

Key Takeaways:

Colma, California, is a unique town with more deceased residents than living ones, boasting 17 cemeteries and famous residents like Wyatt Earp and Levi Strauss.
Despite its small size, Colma is a vibrant community with a shopping district, restaurants, and a rich cultural and historical significance.

Table of Contents

Colma: The Town of Cemeteries

Colma, California, is a small town with a unique history and character. Known as the "City of Souls," it has more deceased residents than living ones. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this intriguing place.

Colma was founded in 1924 as a necropolis, a city of the dead, to house the remains of those displaced by San Francisco's cemetery relocations.
The town's motto is "It's Great to Be Alive in Colma," a nod to its unusual population ratio.
Colma has 17 cemeteries, making it one of the most cemetery-dense areas in the United States.
Approximately 1.5 million people are buried in Colma, while the living population is around 1,500.
The town covers just 2.2 square miles, with a significant portion dedicated to burial grounds.

Famous Residents of Colma

Despite its small size, Colma is the final resting place for many notable individuals. Here are some of the most famous people buried there.

Wyatt Earp, the legendary lawman and gambler of the Wild West, is buried in Hills of Eternity Memorial Park.
Levi Strauss, the inventor of blue jeans, rests in Home of Peace Cemetery.
Joe DiMaggio, the famous baseball player, is interred at Holy Cross Cemetery.
William Randolph Hearst, the influential newspaper magnate, lies in Cypress Lawn Memorial Park.
Phineas Gage, a railroad worker known for surviving a severe brain injury, is buried in Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Unique Features of Colma Cemeteries

Colma's cemeteries are not just ordinary burial grounds. They have unique features and histories that make them stand out.

Cypress Lawn Memorial Park has a replica of the Roman Pantheon, complete with a domed ceiling.
The Italian Cemetery features a chapel with stunning stained glass windows imported from Italy.
Greenlawn Memorial Park has a section dedicated to Japanese Americans, reflecting the area's diverse cultural history.
The Serbian Cemetery includes a monument to Serbian soldiers who fought in World War I.
The Pet's Rest Cemetery is one of the few pet cemeteries in the region, offering a final resting place for beloved animals.

Colma's Role in San Francisco's History

Colma's history is closely tied to that of San Francisco. The town played a crucial role in the city's development and continues to be an important part of the region.

In the early 1900s, San Francisco banned new burials within city limits, leading to the creation of Colma as a necropolis.
Many of San Francisco's cemeteries were relocated to Colma, including the remains from the old City Cemetery.
Colma's cemeteries house the remains of many victims of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake.
The town's cemeteries also include the graves of many early San Francisco pioneers and settlers.
Colma's cemeteries are a testament to the city's diverse cultural heritage, with sections dedicated to various ethnic and religious groups.

Colma's Modern-Day Life

Despite its reputation as a city of the dead, Colma is a vibrant community with a unique character and charm.

Colma has a shopping district with several big-box stores, including a Home Depot and a Target.
The town is home to several restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of dining options for residents and visitors.
Colma has a small but active community center that hosts events and activities for residents.
The town's historical association preserves and promotes Colma's unique history and heritage.
Colma's cemeteries are popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world.

Colma's Unique Laws and Regulations

Colma's status as a necropolis has led to some unique laws and regulations that set it apart from other towns.

Colma has strict zoning laws to preserve its cemeteries and prevent overdevelopment.
The town requires special permits for new burials and cemetery expansions.
Colma has regulations to protect its historic cemeteries and monuments from vandalism and neglect.
The town has a dedicated cemetery commission to oversee the maintenance and operation of its burial grounds.
Colma's laws also include provisions for the care and upkeep of gravesites, ensuring they remain well-maintained.

Colma's Cultural and Historical Significance

Colma's cemeteries are not just places of burial; they are also important cultural and historical landmarks.

The town's cemeteries include many historic monuments and mausoleums, reflecting the architectural styles of different eras.
Colma's cemeteries are home to numerous war memorials, honoring veterans from various conflicts.
The town's burial grounds include sections dedicated to different religious and ethnic communities, showcasing the area's diversity.
Colma's cemeteries are often used as filming locations for movies and TV shows, adding to their cultural significance.
The town's cemeteries host annual events and ceremonies, including Memorial Day services and historical tours.

Colma's Future

Despite its small size and unique character, Colma continues to grow and evolve. The town's future looks bright, with several exciting developments on the horizon.

Colma is working on plans to expand its commercial district, attracting new businesses and creating jobs.
The town is also investing in infrastructure improvements, including road repairs and public transportation upgrades.
Colma's community center is planning to expand its programs and services, offering more activities and resources for residents.

Colma's Unique Charm

Colma, California, stands out with its fascinating history and unique character. Known as the "City of Souls," this small town has more deceased residents than living ones, giving it an eerie yet intriguing vibe. The town's cemeteries, which outnumber its homes, offer a peaceful resting place for many, including famous figures like Wyatt Earp and Joe DiMaggio.

Despite its unusual reputation, Colma boasts a tight-knit community and a rich cultural heritage. The town's quirky charm attracts visitors curious about its past and present. From its origins as a burial ground to its modern-day appeal, Colma remains a testament to the diverse stories that make up California's history.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an interesting day trip, Colma offers a unique glimpse into a world where the past and present coexist harmoniously.

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhy is Colma, California, known as the City of the Dead?

Well, Colma has earned its nickname "City of the Dead" because it has way more dead residents than living ones. Believe it or not, with only about 1,500 living souls, this town is the final resting place for over 1.5 million deceased. That's right, the dead outnumber the living by a thousand to one! This unique situation came about because, back in the early 20th century, San Francisco decided it needed more room for the living. So, they moved their cemeteries out to Colma, making it a vast necropolis.

QWhat's so special about Colma's history?

Colma's history is fascinating because it's a town literally built for the dead. Founded as a necropolis in 1924, its establishment was a direct response to San Francisco's ban on further burials within city limits and the eviction of existing cemeteries. This led to the relocation of millions of bodies to Colma, where land was designated specifically for cemeteries. This unique origin story sets Colma apart from any other town.

QCan you visit famous graves in Colma?

Absolutely! Colma is the final resting place for many notable figures, making it a magnet for history buffs and curious visitors alike. You can pay your respects to famous individuals like Wyatt Earp, a legendary figure of the Wild West, or visit the tomb of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. With such a variety of cemeteries, each with its own history and notable burials, a visit to Colma can be quite an intriguing journey through the past.

QAre there any living attractions in Colma?

Sure thing! While Colma is renowned for its cemeteries, it's not all about the dead. For those among the living, Colma offers shopping centers, a handful of parks, and historical museums that provide insight into the town's unique history. Plus, its close proximity to San Francisco means you're never too far from the bustling city life and its myriad attractions.

QHow do locals feel about living in Colma?

Locals in Colma have a unique perspective on their town's reputation as the City of the Dead. Many take pride in their community's role in preserving history and providing a dignified resting place for millions. They often view their town's cemeteries not just as burial grounds but as peaceful, green spaces that offer tranquility and a connection to the past. Living in Colma is embraced with a sense of respect for its history and a recognition of the importance of remembering those who came before.

QWhat's the best time to visit Colma?

Visiting Colma can be a serene experience year-round, but many find the fall to be particularly beautiful. During this time, the changing leaves add a colorful backdrop to the already picturesque cemeteries. Additionally, the cooler weather makes for comfortable walking tours through the town's historic sites. However, if you're interested in specific events or guided tours, it's a good idea to check the schedule of local attractions in advance.

QIs there a community for genealogists in Colma?

Yes, indeed! Given its rich history and the vast number of individuals buried there, Colma is a goldmine for genealogists and those interested in tracing their ancestry. Several cemeteries offer assistance with genealogical research, providing records and information about the deceased. This has fostered a community of researchers and history enthusiasts who share a passion for uncovering the stories of those who rest in Colma.

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