As a kid, I spent a lot of weekends at cemeteries. We had a lot of people to visit. My dad, grandparents, uncle. My brother and I would play catch with those Velcro hand-gloves (90s kids will know what I’m talking about) and I’d collect rocks to leave with the headstones. We’d usually stop at Dairy Queen on the way home. It wasn’t always sad and depressing. It was… it was just what we did.
I know I’m not the only one who likes to take a stroll through the cemetery, staying on the paved road of course. I’d rather not walk among the graves unless I’m looking for someone I know. Someday, I’ll tell a realtor — “you get bonus points for a house on cemetery perimeter.” Peaceful. Serene. Calm. A beautiful place to connect with my Higher Self.
There are so many beautiful cemeteries in Madison, like Forest Hill Cemetery on the West Side. It dates back to the Civil War and is one of the first US National Cemeteries established in Wisconsin. There’s also a Native American Effigy Mound on the property. It’s full of rich, Madison history and they are so welcoming of guests, they even have a walking tour map!
I used to live in Milwaukee and this past Summer, when visiting a friend who lives there, I stumbled upon the grave of Les Paul, who was born in Waukesha.
My love of cemeteries is deepened in the Fall, when colors are turning and there’s a crisp in the air. I know it’s Halloween weekend and most of what you hear about graves this time of year have a spooky story undertone… so this is my friendly reminder that cemeteries are not a sad place but are full of life and beauty.
Let me know where your favorite cemeteries to stroll are – connect with me on Facebook – and see pictures below of Forest Hill and Les Paul’s grave-site.
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Jim Bartlett
April 22, 2024
April 18, 2024