Virtual Tour of the Western State Hospital Cemetery

The Grave Concerns Association is a volunteer organization dedicated to the restoration of the historic Western State Hospital Cemetery located on the grounds of Fort Steilacoom Park. Their organization grew from John Lucas’s desire to rededicate the prairie cemetery where over 3,000 former patients were buried, but few markers were visible in 2000. Through an incredible journey that lead to the changing of laws to allow for individuals buried in the cemetery to no longer remain anonymous Grave Concerns has brought dignity and peace to over 3000 souls. Join us as we explore the story of this cemetery from its founding with Western State to today. We will cover some of the stories of those who were buried there as well as delve into all that Grave Concerns has done.