Hillendahl Cemetery, located in Houston's Spring Branch area, is a small but significant historic cemetery. Trust me when I tell you, you could miss it in the blink of an eye!

That's because Hillendahl, which is officially a Historic Texas Cemetery is smack dab in the middle of a parking lot!

What is Hillendahl Cemetery?

Hillendahl is a small 25’ x 55’ cemetery in Houston, Texas that is home to 19 graves. Over the years, the cemetery has become surrounded by urban development, including commercial properties and parking lots, highlighting the contrast between Houston's historical roots and its rapid modernization.

Hillendahl Cemetery is recognized for its historical value. It serves as a tangible link to the area's early settlers and their contributions to the development of Houston.

Hillendahl Cemetery dates back to the mid-19th century, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in the Houston area. The cemetery is named after the Hillendahl family, German immigrants who settled in the area. It served as a burial ground for the family and other early settlers of the region. The cemetery is situated at the intersection of Long Point Road and Pech Road, in the midst of a bustling urban environment.

The cemetery contains the graves of numerous early settlers, including members of the Hillendahl family. Some headstones date back to the 1800s. Although the cemetery is relatively small, especially compared to modern cemeteries, its historical significance is substantial, so much so that Hillendahl Cemetery has been preserved as a historical site. Efforts have been made to maintain its condition and protect it from encroachment.

But, is this the world's smallest cemetery? Probably not. There is debate of what is the smallest cemetery in the world; some say it's in Michigan, other say it's in New York. Either way, Hillendahl Cemetery might be the state's smallest cemetery and it stands as a poignant reminder of the past, nestled within the present-day urban landscape of Houston's Spring Branch area.