This historic cemetery dating back to 1836 was never segregated. Slaves and servants were sometimes buried in the family plots of the families they served. Blacks could also buy their own plots; many of their graves are concentrated in one area. The cemetery contains the graves of 78 US Colored Troops. The Confederate square 13 also includes the remains of black soldiers.
The brochure describes the cemetery "a masterpiece of Victorian history, funerary art and the beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast. A journey through the past; beautiful 19th century cast iron, hundreds of unique tombs, crypts and family mausolea, statues and hand carved monuments and headstones.""
They have many historic gravesites, including those of: a beloved 19th century Southern novelist, an early member of the Civil Rights movement, six Confederate Generals, the founders of Mobile's Mardi Gras, Native American Army Scouts, including the son of Geronimo, and many more.
The cemetery covers over 120 acres and contains some 80,000 gravesites. 
The variety and array of funerary art on display are breathtaking; from hauntingly mournful angels to elaborate urns, anchors, lambs and crosses symbolizing hope, mercy, forgiveness and memory.
In addition, the many graceful epitaphs are reminders of a more eloquent and devout age. A visit to this fascinating necropolis is an outdoor experience not to be missed. OK, I have never in all of my life heard the term "funerary art" but now that I know what it means, I just wanted to let you know - the bird on that guys head? NOT funerary art. He was a real bird. Just stopping for a rest, I guess.
1 comment:
Great pics!
Greggie
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