The Black Angel of Oakland Cemetery
This eerie, eight-foot-tall bronze monument has watched over Oakland Cemetery since 1913. Originally a bright golden bronze, natural oxidation turned the statue a haunting pitch-black, sparking local legends of curses and dark magic. It remains one of Iowa's most famous haunted landmarks, drawing curious visitors year-round.
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Daily from 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM
- Duration
- 15-30 minutes
- Parking
- Free parking available along the paved cemetery roads
- Access
- Paved cemetery roads provide close access, though the immediate grassy area around the monument may be uneven for wheelchairs
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Cast in bronze by artist Mario Korbel, this striking 8.5-foot monument was erected in 1913 by Teresa Dolezal Feldevert to honor her late son and husband. Over the decades, natural oxidation transformed its original bright bronze finish into a dark, eerie black, sparking decades of local folklore.
Visitors to Oakland Cemetery will find the statue looming with folded wings and a downward gaze, a stark departure from traditional upward-reaching cemetery angels. The site is a hub for supernatural legends, with myths claiming that touching or kissing the angel brings bad luck, sudden illness, or even death.
Beyond the spooky tales, the Black Angel is a masterpiece of early 20th-century funerary art that draws curious travelers and paranormal enthusiasts alike. It remains one of Iowa City's most iconic and atmospheric roadside oddities, particularly during the autumn months.
Ratings
landmarkVisitor Tips
- ◆ Respect the cemetery rules and visiting hours, as it is an active burial ground that closes at dark.
- ◆ Visit during the daytime to fully appreciate the artistic details of the bronze casting and the surrounding historic headstones.
- ◆ Park along the paved cemetery roads and walk to the monument, which is located in the northern section of the cemetery.
- ◆ Bring a camera, as the angel is highly photogenic, especially when framed by the changing fall foliage.
Heads Up
- ◆ The cemetery is strictly closed after dark, and police frequently patrol the area to deter trespassers and vandals.
- ◆ Always remain respectful of any ongoing funerals or mourning visitors during your visit.
Common questions
Can you visit the Black Angel at night?
No, Oakland Cemetery is officially closed to the public from dusk to dawn, and local police patrol the area to enforce this. Visitors must view the statue during daylight hours.
Where is the Black Angel located within Oakland Cemetery?
The statue is located in the northern section of the cemetery, close to the intersection of Brown Street and North Governor Street. A paved path leads directly to the monument area.
Is there an admission fee to see the Black Angel?
No, visiting the Black Angel is completely free. It is located inside a public, city-owned cemetery that is open to the public.
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