Historic Oakland Cemetery Bell Tower
Constructed in the heart of Oakland Cemetery, the bell tower was built in 1899 by architect G.W. Smith in the Romanesque Revival style. The building served various roles, from sexton office to visitors’ center and offices for Historic Oakland Foundation. The recent renovation focused on stabilizing the structure, modernizing systems, enhancing public access and creating spaces that would expand Oakland Cemetery’s programming capabilities. Exterior restoration included porch reconstruction, plaster work and new roofing, while the interior saw the removal of non-historic elements and preservation of original features. The rehabilitation, funded by Historic Oakland Foundation’s Living History Capital Campaign and a grant from Invest Atlanta’s Community Empowerment Fund, enables broader programming to the community.
Excellence in Rehabilitation Awards recognize projects that make compatible use of a building through repair, alterations or additions while preserving features of the property that convey its historic value.
