Cemeteries of St. Louis

Not many people realize that cemeteries have great appeal. Originally these places of internment for the dearly departed were designed for more than just a place to bury the dead. Ever wonder why a society buries it dead on a hill, in the most beautiful position around, or why the architecture is so wonder?

Cemeteries were intended to be park like places where families could picnic, have reunions or parties. Many even had wedding ceremonies within its gates. Churches and communities would have socials on the grounds. The flora and fauna are always glorious to behold, fun for children to play in, and a absolute must for amateur photographers.

St. Louis, Missouri has some of the most beautiful cemeteries in the country and a fantastic place to have lunch and learn more about the city's history. Bellefontaine cemetery was founded in 1849 and is considered to be an outdoor museum for within its 314 acres rest some of the most notable persons not only of St. Louis but of the state of Missouri. A must see are the mausoleums and headstones of such persons as Adophus Busch 1913, William Clark 1838, the Cupples mausoleum 1912, James Eads 1887, the notable Lemp family tomb 1870, John O'Fallon 1865 and the Civil War hero Sterling Price 1867. Calvary cemetery, established in 1854 is adjacent to Bellefontaine and is the second oldest Catholic cemetery in the city. One can find many notable persons here also. Persons like Tennessee Williams 1983, Kate Chopin 1904, Dred Scott 1858, William Tecumseh Sherman1891 not to mention many former Browns and Cardinal players.

These places are a great place to visit during the spring bloom and also on a hot summer day. So take some time and the family to visit the cemeteries of St. Louis for it will be an enlightening experience for all.