Although the cemetery was founded in 1847, the gatehouse wasn't added until 1862, and was designed by architect John McMurtry.

[4] Many of the grave markers within the cemetery from the 19th and early 20th centuries are made of marble or similar materials.

While not as durable as granite, the most commonly used stone today, marble's relative softness lends itself to more elaborate designs.

There are several examples of Victorian Era angels in the cemetery, as well as numerous obelisks, both of which were popular grave monuments during the 19th century.

The structure is made of mortared limestone, locally quarried, and the chimney is 30 feet (9.1 m) tall on a 10-foot-tall (3.0 m) base.