Oak Grove Cemetery is home to a plethora of historic grave sites, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. One such spot in the cemetery is the Hixon Family Monument, the final resting place of the prominent family in La Crosse County. Their influence and achievements left a mark on the community that continues to this day.

Family History

The Hixons’ role in the community began in 1856 with the arrival of Gideon Hixon, a Vermont lumberman. Unfortunately, his wife Sarah died shortly after they settled in La Crosse. In 1861 Gideon married his second wife, Ellen Pennel, a local school teacher who became the mother of his five sons. Ellen made her mark in the community by starting a committee to save Grandad Bluff from a quarry company’s interference.

Gideon and Ellen’s two sons Frank and Joseph were active in many philanthropic projects in the area, and Frank’s wife Alice participated heavily in many social and cultural organizations. She was even president of the La Crosse League of Women Voters.

Memorials & Museums

Alice ensured that the Hixon home at 429 North Seventh Street was meticulously maintained, and in 1962 she donated the building and all of its contents to the La Crosse County Historical Society. The house is currently a museum open to the public that provides guests a one-of-a-kind look at life for nineteenth century upper-class citizens.

A memorial for the Hixons inside the cemetery was commissioned by Frank in 1913. He enlisted the talents of sculptor Leonard Cruelle, who designed the molded copper Mother and Children monument for their family burial site. It also serves as the final resting place for Frank, Alice, and three of Frank’s brothers. The rest of the Hixon family members are buried in their family cemetery plot in Oak Grove.

With more than 30,000 people interred on their grounds since 1852, Oak Grove Cemetery provides a historical, park atmosphere to anyone within their gates. Located in La Crosse, WI, the cemetery is one of the oldest in the area and offers walking tours of their grave sites. For those seeking burial within their beautiful landscape, the location provides an array of burial options including cemetery plots, mausoleum space, and cremation services. Call their compassionate staff at (608) 782-6956. Visit them online for more information on their walking tours or stop by their Facebook page for news and updates.