The cemetery was conceived in October 1846 when a citizens group circulated a petition and collected $1,500 towards the purchase of land.
A new subscription effort in December 1849 led to the incorporation of the cemetery on 29 January 1850, at which time seven managers were named.
The deed was conveyed to the corporation on 28 March 1850, at which time a $1,500 deposit was paid and a judgment bond of $6,000 signed to secure payment of the balance due.
Officers of the corporation were elected on 24 May 1850, namely George A. Eliot, President; William A.
Notable people buried at the Erie Cemetery: