Collierville's historic Magnolia Cemetery is nestled among large magnolia trees from which it received its name. It is located south of the town square between Mt. Pleasant Road on the east, Quinn Road on the west, and bounded on the south by land of Mrs. William Parr, Sr., formerly owned by A.S. Stratton. The first deed recorded for the cemetery was on May 18, 1878, in the Registrar’s Office of Shelby County.
Many different kind of tombstones are seen throughout the cemetery, including columns, arches, shafts of marble, pedestals, heavy granite squares, emblems, and delicately carved figures. In 1862 a young boy was mortally wounded in the Battle of Collierville; he is buried under the large oak tree, his grave marked “Unknown Confederate Soldier”. In 1997, the Wigfall Grays Camp 1560 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans erected a marker nearby to honor the 57 Civil War veterans known to be buried here, including the one whose name is known but to God.
The cemetery remains open from 6am to dark, so plan your hunt accordingly. You'll be looking for a camouflaged bison tube. Bring your own pen to sign the log. Enjoy!