The Final Resting Place of History and Colorful Characters – Key West Cemetery
Here is a great post about a special tour that you can take while visiting Key West. I personally, would have never thought to trip through a cemetary but after reading about the history of the Key West Cemetary I would make it a part of my things to do list.
You may not consider a trip to the cemetery as a typical “must see,” but here on our island it is well worth the time to tour the Key West Cemetery. This 19-acre area in Old Town is located at the foot of our highest point, Solares Hill, which stands all of 18 feet above sea level. The history and memories of 100,000 people lie buried in the Key West Cemetery. That number is three times the current population of Key West, and I can only imagine the history and stories among some of the tomb stones!
The Key West Cemetery gained national fame in 2005 when it was featured as part of a PBS television documentary entitled, “A Cemetery Special.” Although there are many photos and videos of the cemetery, I think one of the most fascinating is a moving picture made by Thomas Edison in 1898! He filmed the burial of The Maine seamen who were killed when their ship was sunk in the Havana Harbor. Take a moment – step back in time and view the actual event taking place 113 years ago! Burial of sailors from The Maine
The current location of the Key West Cemetery was created after the original cemetery at Whitehead Point was destroyed by a hurricane in 1846. There is now an African Memorial Cemetery dedicated near Whitehead Point to honor the slaves who died during sea voyages to America and were buried at this location prior to The Civil War.
Today our Key West Cemetery, owned by the City of Key West, is preserved by The Historic Florida Keys Foundation. Walking tours are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays and I encourage you to take one. You can also take a self-guided tour, and maps are available at the cemetery’s front entrance. An online map is available which features descriptions of some of the people buried there. For more information about tours, call 305-292-6718.
The cemetery, just like current Key West, is the final home of many characters! I guarantee you’ll smile at some of the grave markers. Pearl Roberts, local hypochondriac, is buried under the stone that reads, “I Told you I was Sick” and Gloria Russell’s marker declares, “I’m just resting my eyes.”
The Key West Cemetery also reflects the current “One Human Family” motto of our island. As you walk through the cemetery you will see graves of millionaires and paupers, and graves of people of all races, colors, and creeds. Catholics, Protestants, Jews, and those of unknown faith rest side-by-side.
Although you may not be looking for your “final resting place” at this point, I am ready to help you find a good “resting place” in our peaceful paradise of Key West! Give me a call and we’ll get started. Margarita Villoch 305-304-8505
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