PHOENIX - The calls from the curious come in at least twice a week.

They are often from people who have driven past the old Phoenix cemetery at 14th Avenue and Jefferson Street and wonder just what it is. They call the number on the sign at the Pioneer and Military Memorial Park and it's often Marge West, a researcher with the Pioneers' Cemetery Association, who answers.

She's answering from the 1897 Smurthwaite House, which is next to the cemetery.

"I can see them in the parking lot," West said and chuckled.

Callers want to know about the cemetery and ask about tours. Some callers are from out of town, like a fire chief from northern Arizona who was in the Valley recently.

When enough names are gathered or several weeks have passed, the Cemetery Association sets up a tour of the cemetery site, which is home to the graves of the seven historic Phoenix cemeteries that were in use from 1884 to 1914.

The next tour is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 29. Admission is free. More information is available by e-mailing This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or calling (602) 534-1262.

West said there are about 3,700 graves at the cemetery site. Over the years, the cemetery association has been documenting the graves by checking death and mortuary records, West said.

"The first grave dates to about 1872," she said.

Those walking around the cemetery during the tour may use a brochure of about 30 names with brief biographies as a guide.

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