cemeteries
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What To Know About Choosing a Cemetery
Recently, I arranged a funeral for the husband of a woman named Arlene. The couple did not have cemetery property. Nor had they discussed where they wanted to be buried. They were, in other words, like too many others who haven’t thought about the important decision of a final resting place. Arlene’s husband, Dan, was…
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Moonrise at Green-Wood Cemetery
I spend a lot of time in cemeteries–in both my capacity as a funeral director and writer, where I’ve found many a great story with rich historical context. But being in a cemetery after dark is a far different experience. I wouldn’t say it’s spooky, but it does give one a completely different perspective. That…
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F. Scott Fitzgerald
At the grave of one of my literary idols. The closing words to “The Great Gatsby” are etched into the slab in front of his monument. — at St Mary’s Church. The Great Gatsby was required reading during my school days, and it became one of my favorite books. I read and reread it long after my…
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Published Today: Gardens of Stone
My latest book is an historic overview of New York City’s most notable and historic cemeteries. Filled with photos, it can easily serve as a guidebook and reference book for taphophiles and tourists alike.
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Calvary Cemetery Profile
My profile of historic Calvary Cemetery in Queens County, NY –where folklore has it that 3 million people are buried–is the cover story for June’s American Cemetery. As a funeral director, the figure of 3 million did not sound right. The NY Diocese was happy to provide me with the more appropriate –and still substantial…