Stories Behind the Stones :
Even WE have our favorites !
by Steve Brown , Preservation Craftsperson
Halcyon , Garden , Ben Thompson Memorial : “ It is hard to say that I have a favorite monument , however I do like the memorial to architect Ben Thompson tucked along the edge of the Coolidge Avenue boundary . I live nearby and walk with my family often in the Cemetery , sometimes to go back over well worn routes , only to discover a gem like the Thompson memorial . Sometimes the cemetery is filled with light and all the monuments appear equally well lit . I prefer the days when there are shadows and dark corners and some light comes through the trees and one of the monuments stand out and catch the light . If the light is right , the Thompson memorial is one of those monuments that can catch the light and make the entire walk more worthwhile .” — Sean Mcdonnell , Friends of Mount Auburn Trustee
103 Central Avenue , Hosea Ballou statue ( pedestal ): “ I like the statue because of his actions as a minister and also because of the statue ’ s great size .” — Julio Ortiz ,
Preservation Department
12 | Sweet Auburn
380 Narcissus Path , Winchester Tomb : “ It reminds me of the strange little buildings you ’ d see in English gardens , reflective of the Cemetery ’ s origins .” — Gus Fraser , Director of Preservation & Facilities
There is more online ! www . mountauburn . org / sweet-auburn-fall-2013 /
4312 Kalmia Path , Mary Walker monument : “ Atop the obelisk marking the grave of once-enslaved Mary Walker is a unique figure chosen by her daughter – a winged dove about to alight – that to me beautifully symbolizes the release Mary Walker pursued for her family and the redemption she achieved for them and for her soul .” — Dr . Sydney Nathans , Ph . D ., Duke University Professor Emeritus and author of To Free a Family
On Trefoil Path near Spruce Avenue , Decorative marble headstones : “ I like the entire section because of the elaborate detail and beauty .” — Melinda Moulton ,
Accounting Manager
2735 Central Avenue , Jones family lot , stack of three large boulders : “ It ’ s grandiose but not overwhelming .” — Darryl Sullivan ,
Gardening Supervisor