MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - Evergreen Cemetery enters a new era with Evergreen Cemetery, Inc. NewsRadio WGNS sat down with Board Chair Greg Tucker to learn what’s happening behind the scenes. Longtime Executive Administrator Betty Brewer will continue in her leadership role, working alongside Tucker as a Director to guide a smooth and successful transition.

A Symbolic Transfer with Big Purpose

Four years ago, the City of Murfreesboro transferred ownership of Evergreen Cemetery to the nonprofit Evergreen Cemetery, Inc. for the symbolic price of one dollar. That kind of transfer is common when a city hands over a public asset to a nonprofit that will continue serving the community. The goal was clear: give the nearly 150‑year‑old, 90‑acre cemetery the flexibility to pursue grants, donations, and private fundraising. The nonprofit structure also places management in the hands of professionals with expertise in history, finance, and preservation — a governance model far more nimble than city bureaucracy.

New Construction and a New Museum

Tucker shared that a new administration office building is now under construction in the center of the cemetery, where the former maintenance building was located. Once staff moves into that new structure, the current office at the entrance gates, will be transformed into a museum dedicated to telling the Evergreen Cemetery story — and it’s quite a story.

Looking Back at the Old City Cemetery

To understand Evergreen’s beginnings, Tucker pointed back to the Old City Cemetery on Vine Street. Today, that cemetery is fenced and gated. It is maintained by Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation. But when Evergreen was established in 1872, officials declared that no additional burials would take place at the old cemetery. Families were asked to move their loved ones to Evergreen, though only a few agreed. As a result, many of the graves of founding families remain at the historic Vine Street location. Over time, the Old City Cemetery fell into neglect, but its historical significance kept many graves in place.

Early Days of Evergreen Cemetery

Evergreen’s story began in 1872 when the City of Murfreesboro purchased 20 acres from the Maney family to establish a new municipal cemetery. It was first called Oaklands Cemetery, but in 1873 trustees were appointed and the name was changed to Evergreen Cemetery.

By the 1880's, acceptance of Evergreen as the community’s new burial ground also led to major reinterments. More than 2,000 Confederate soldiers — most unnamed — were moved from the old Confederate Cemetery into what is now known as the Confederate Circle at Evergreen.

New Connections to Murfreesboro’s Past

The land itself holds deeper history. It was once part of the Oaklands Plantation, where enslaved individuals were buried. Section M of Evergreen contains unmarked graves of enslaved Africans — confirmed through ground‑penetrating radar by Middle Tennessee State University historians.

Today, Evergreen Cemetery, Inc. is working with various groups to uncover, preserve, and share these important pieces of local history. And NewsRadio WGNS will continue bringing you detailed reports on the services, activities, and discoveries happening at Evergreen Cemetery.

Bart talks with Evergreen Cemetery, Inc.'s Chairman Greg Tucker...