Wildwood was established in 1863 as the main cemetery for Williamsport and its surrounding communities.

[citation needed] East Wildwood contains the cemeteries, crematorium, offices, and all of the larger public mausoleum.

West Wildwood is where the military memorial and monument are located, as well as the Praying Hands mausoleum.

Thomas Pursell, a local firefighter, wanted a burial arrangement for which he or his family could escape in case they were prematurely buried.

The resulting design was heavily documented by media in Williamsport and the surrounding areas.