Riverside Cemetery

The Defiance Mausoleum was built in 1925 at Riverside Cemetery by a citizens' group. Proceeds from the sale of crypts created a perpetual care fund sufficient for the future maintenance of the building. This is administered by the trustees of the non-profit Defiance Mausoleum Association.

The Cemetery Chapel was built in 1888, by John Demann and W. S. and A. G. McClary with assistance from Architect Jonathan I. Hale. This Gothic Revival structure consists of a slate gabled roof and a true Gothic ceiling done by expert craftsmen. The exterior walls are built of limestone with handsome beltcoursings of portage red stone. The chapel room is 22 feet by 34 feet with an additional bay for the lowering apparatus used to lower bodies into the vault. The massive doors and window frames are handsomely done in natural pine. The floor is Georgian marble carried on segmental brick arches between steel beams. The interior walls are stucco, delicately tinted from terra cotta to a light blue. There is a handsome mantel and open grate of glass tile from Europe.
- Defiance Public Library

This is probably one of the best examples of Gothic Revival style in this area. The original cost of the building was $8,500.

The chapel is the property of the City of Defiance. The interior of the Chapel is cared for by the Fort Defiance Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. The chapel is currently used for small weddings, funerals, and/or committal services. If interested, please contact Mayor's office or a DAR member.

RIVERSIDE CEMETERY
1417 SOUTH CLINTON
419-784-2253 OFFICE
419-784-2253 FAX
419-576-6342 CELL
HOURS: 7:30 - 3:30 MON - FRI
AFTER HOURS UNTIL 4:30: 419-784-2745