The History of Jackson Monument Works
Where It All Started
Elmer C. St. John - Jackson, Mi - 1910
Our story traces back to 1910, with the founding of Jackson Granite Co. by Elmer C. St. John, located at the corner of East Michigan Avenue and State Street in Jackson, Michigan. During the vibrant 1920s, the company expanded into a newly constructed building on Francis Street, adjacent to St. John and Woodland Cemeteries, marking a new chapter as Jackson Monument Works. Over the decades, the company grew into one of Southern Michigan's most respected monument builders, serving generations of families with quality craftsmanship and personal service.
Where We Are Today
Chris St. John
The St. John family's leadership of Jackson Monument Works continued through Chris St. John, Elmer's great-grandson. Chris assumed leadership after purchasing the business from his father, Elwood St. John, who retired following an impressive 43-year career with the company.
In 2001, Chris purchased the building across the street from Woodland Cemetery, where Jackson Monument Works continues to serve families today.
As one of only four Certified Memorialists in the State of Michigan, Chris was recognized for his expertise, professionalism, and dedication to the art and craft of memorialization. Under his leadership, Jackson Monument Works continued the tradition of exceptional craftsmanship, personalized service, and community trust that had defined the company for generations
Continuing the St. John Legacy
In late 2024, Jackson Monument Works became part of Patten Monument Company of Comstock Park, established in 1917. Bringing together two long-standing Michigan monument companies ensured that the Jackson Monument Works name, traditions, and commitment to quality would continue serving families throughout the region.
Today, Jackson Monument Works proudly combines more than 115 years of local history with the experience and resources of Patten Monument Company of Comstock Park. As part of the Patten Monument Group family of companies, we continue to provide the same trusted craftsmanship and personal service families have relied on for generations, now supported by one of Michigan's largest and most experienced monument builders.
It's worth noting that many of the dedicated people who built Jackson Monument Works' reputation remain part of the team today. Their experience, attention to detail, and commitment to quality help ensure every memorial reflects the high standards that have defined Jackson Monument Works for more than a century.
From custom upright monuments and companion monuments to flat grave markers, slant markers, cremation memorials, mausoleums, benches, civic memorials, and memorial restoration, we guide families through every step of the memorial process—from design and cemetery regulations to production, delivery, and professional installation.
Still located in Jackson, Michigan, Jackson Monument Works proudly serves families throughout Jackson, Brooklyn, Napoleon, Grass Lake, Michigan Center, Spring Arbor, Leslie, Manchester, Albion, Chelsea, Hillsdale, Adrian, and surrounding communities. We also serve families across Jackson County, Hillsdale County, Lenawee County, Calhoun County, Eaton County, Washtenaw County, and throughout Southern Michigan.
We are honored to carry forward the legacy established by the St. John family while continuing to provide the same exceptional craftsmanship, compassionate service, and lasting memorials that families have trusted for more than a century.