Jesse Knight Memorial Cemetery on Colonial Lane East Nokomis, Fl.

The Knight Cemetery began in the 1880’s as the first burial ground in the Venice/Nokomis area (originally called the Venice Cemetery). The land for the Cemetery was donated by early settler Jesse Knight. Mr. Knight also played a role in the development of the area’s first school and church.

Origins and Early Settlement

The history of the cemetery is tied to Jesse and Rebeca Knight who were among the earliest settlers in the region They arrived in what was known as Venice in 1868 with their children and 300 head of cattle. Their homestead lay south of Shakett Creek and their cattle grazed across the area

As more settlers arrived Knight recognized the need for a local school. He was instrumental in its construction. The same building was used for religious services on Sunday.

Establishment of the Cemetery

The land that was to become Knight Cemetery was already being used for burials since 1880’s. This makes it the oldest cemetery in the Venice/Nokomis area.

Key Milestones

1880’s site begins serving as a cemetery

08/03/1888 First recorded burial

10/22/1903 Knight donates 1/2 acre for Methodist Episcopal Church

1904 Cemetery formerly known as Venice Cemetery now known as Knight Cemetery

There are approximately 1,000 internments from the 19th and 20th centuries in the Knight Cemetery. It remains a significant historical and genealogical resource for the Sarasota County area. Its ties to Jesse Knight’s role in the region’s educational, religious and community life makes it a cornerstone of local heritage.