Germany Liberal Cemetery

The German Liberal Cemetery is a public, non-denominational cemetery owned and operated by the City of Medina. Located at 2695 Hamel Road, the one-acre cemetery is situated in a rural setting that overlooks School Lake. 

General Regulations

Gravesites are a standard size. Burials per site may be one casket, one casket and one cremation, or up to three cremations. Burial vaults are required for all remains. Gravestones must be flat and level with the ground. Additional information regarding regulations are detailed in City Code Section 530(PDF, 22KB).

Fees

Service Fee 
 Gravesite Purchase  $1,500
 Gravesite Transfer $15
 Internment for Casket $1,010
 Internment for Cremation $410
 Marker Removal $100

*Internment fee includes marker locating

History

When the City took ownership of the German Liberal Cemetery in 2010, it was one of two remaining “Free Thinkers” cemeteries in the state. The Free Thinkers Society was a movement that began in Germany during the 1840’s as a protest against the unquestioning acceptance of the authority of the church regarding religious truths. The main focus of these groups was to promote a spiritual freedom and to recognize a person’s right to believe religious truths that are evident through science, history, personal knowledge and experience.

This acre plot of land was donated by Bernard Gaspar. The cemetery was used as early as 1862 and was officially recorded and recognized by the state in 1892. The City of Medina assumed ownership and operation of the cemetery in fall of 2010.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I buy a gravesite?

Please 763-473-8850 to make an appointment to purchase a gravesite.

When can I visit the cemetery?

Visitors are welcome daily from sunrise to sunset. Please park only on the paved area or in the designated Hamel Road parking area.

Service animals are welcome in the cemetery. All other animals should remain in the owner’s vehicle.

Do not alter any plant, flower, shrub or decoration that does not belong to you.

All activities which are not respectful to the memory of those buried in the cemetery or to their visitors are prohibited.

 

Can I bring flowers?

Fresh cut flowers, potted plants and artificial flowers are permitted from April 1 to October 31 and must be placed in a flower pot mounted in a single staked iron cemetery stand of standard size and sturdiness. For grounds keeping purposes, no shepherd’s hook plant stands or inappropriate containers such as glass jars or coffee cans are acceptable. Planting directly into the ground is prohibited except in designated garden areas.

Evergreen wreaths and winter artificial decorations may be placed from November 1 to March 31 and must be securely staked to avoid blowing or tipping.

Any items to be saved must be removed before the spring or fall deadline to allow for spring and fall cleanup.

Solar lights, balloons, lanterns, wind chimes and other items which are designed or intended to emit light or sound or which move by wind, mechanical or electrical power are prohibited and subject to immediate removal.

Items which become unkempt or unsightly may be removed by the groundskeeper.