For more than 180 years, Woodland Cemetery has stood as a hallowed sanctuary for eternal peace, safeguarding the remains of over 112,000 individuals. It serves as the final resting place for many of Dayton’s illustrious citizens, including aviation pioneers the Wright brothers, celebrated humorist Erma Bombeck, renowned poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, and inventive genius Charles Kettering.

Established in 1841 on what was then the periphery of Dayton, the cemetery was created to meet the burgeoning city’s growing demand for burial spaces. Through the decades, Woodland Cemetery has remained a steadfast beacon of memory and solace for the people of Dayton. Looking forward, it is committed to the diligent preservation of its rich heritage and ensuring its continuity. With thoughtful foresight into adapting to the community’s evolving needs, Woodland is poised to maintain its relevance and accessibility well into the future, seamlessly integrating with both new developments and rejuvenation projects.

Wright Family Plot
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Johnny Morehouse Gravesite
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Five-year-old Johnny Morehouse (1855-1860) lived with his mother, Mary Margaret, and father, John, in the rear of the family shoe repair shop along the Miami & Erie canal near what is now Patterson Boulevard in Dayton, Ohio. On a hot August 14th day in 1860, Johnny was playing along the canal. He fell into the dark depths and his dog repeatedly tried to save him, but by the time he pulled the boy to the side of the canal, Johnny was dead.

After Johnny was buried in Woodland Cemetery, his dog refused to leave his grave, staying by his young master even after death. Stories tell of visitors to the cemetery who saw the dog and left treats and food for him. The tradition still continues. Trinkets are left on the grave to honor the loyal pup. The ghost of Johnny and his dog are seen playing at the cemetery and a dog's playful bark can be heard at night.