Tag: Headstone

Stone Stories: The Voice of the Great Lakes

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“They might have split up or they might have capsized
They may have broke deep and took water
And all that remains is the faces and the names
Of the wives and the sons and the daughters”1

These lyrics from Gordon Lightfoot’s iconic song The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald have long been etched in the minds of listeners, who like me, have found themselves enthralled by Lightfoot’s masterful storytelling.

This song, along with many of his other hits, like If You Could Read My Mind and Sundown, have created the soundtrack for countless Canadians, evoking the beauty, melancholy, and vastness of our Canadian landscape.

Today on the blog, I want to share my experience from this past September. I had the opportunity to visit the Gordon Lightfoot Sculpture Park and his final resting place in his hometown of Orillia, Ontario.

Gordon Lightfoot. Photo: Arnielee, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Gordon Lightfoot

Gordon Meredith Lightfoot was born on November 17, 19382 in the small town of Orillia, the gateway to the Muskokas.3 From an early age, Lightfoot showed a natural talent for music, learning the piano, teaching himself to play drums, and later picking up the guitar.2 In 1957, Lightfoot left Canada, going to Los Angeles to study jazz orchestration at Westlake College of Music.2 After returning to Canada in the late 1950s, he began to sing folk songs and play guitar around Toronto.2

It didn’t take long for Lightfoot to make his mark on the Canadian music scene. His folk-infused ballads quickly captured the essence of the Canadian spirit. Throughout his career, Lightfoot released over 20 albums and was known for his blend of folk, country, and soft rock—a style uniquely his.2

Lightfoot received numerous prestigious awards throughout his music career, including multiple Juno awards, and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1986.2 He also earned honours like the Order of Canada, Order of Ontario, and a Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards.2 Lightfoot was recognized in the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame and received a Lifetime Achievement award from SOCAN and the Toronto Music Awards.2

One of my favorite Lightfoot songs is based on a real-life event, the tragic sinking of the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald. The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, in my opinion, is one of his most famous and most haunting ballads.

The song is a tribute to all the lives lost in the shipwreck, on November 10, 1975. It’s estimated that between 7:20 and 7:30 p.m. on that fateful day, the ship vanished and sank with 29 men onboard.4

S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald. Photo: United States Army Corps of Engineers, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Gordon Lightfoot Sculpture Park

I knew my visit to Orillia would not be complete without a visit to the Gordon Lightfoot Sculpture Park and walking trail. We visited in late September, and the trees were just beginning to change. A perfect day for a walk.

The sculpture park is a beautiful and artistic tribute to Lightfoot’s music and legacy, celebrating both his achievements and his connection to the area. The park’s centerpiece is a striking, larger-than-life bronze sculpture of Lightfoot, sitting cross-legged with his guitar in hand. It captures him in his element, mid-song as his music comes alive around him, depicted on maple leaves that encircle him.
I took some time to reflect while standing before the statue. The park is not just a collection of art pieces, but a reflection of Lightfoot’s connection to the land, his music, and the people who grew up listening to his songs.

My mother and I were not the only visitors to the park that day. There were throngs of people walking the trails, many with large cameras in hand. I noticed they all took some time to admire the beautiful sculpture work and reflect on Lightfoot’s life and work as well.

I wondered if Lightfoot himself had known about this sculpture park. I was pleasantly surprised to see a large plaque that showed Lightfoot smiling as he stood beside his younger, bronze self. He was in attendance for the unveiling in 2015, and said humbly “I’m honoured, much more so than any of the honours I’ve received up to this point in time.”5

Gordon Lightfoot Sculpture Park. Bronze sculpture work by Timothy P. Schmalz. Orillia ON ©2024

St. Andrews and St. James Cemetery

After walking the entirety of the walking trail loop, my mother and I made our way back to the car. We decided since the area was so nice that we would have our picnic lunch in the sculpture park, before heading to our next destination—the cemetery.

It was a short drive from the park to St. Andrews and St. James Cemetery. The cemetery was quiet and serene, offering beautiful views of the surrounding forest, although we were not the only living souls visiting the cemetery that day. There was an older couple who were also meandering through the cemetery paths.

Gordon Lightfoot passed away of natural causes, in a hospital in Toronto, at the age of 84.6 He was laid to rest in St. Andrews and St. James Cemetery in May of 2023, beside his mother and father. His mother, Jessie Vick Trill Lightfoot passed away in 1998 at the age of 88.7 His father, Gordon Meredith Lightfoot Sr. passed away in 1974 at the age of 63.8

The gravestone is simple, yet elegant—a testament to the quiet humility Lightfoot always embodied, despite his fame. The inscription simply reads “Together Forever”.

The grave of Gordon Lightfoot. St. Andrews and St. James Cemetery, Orillia ON ©2024

Visiting Gordon Lightfoot’s grave and walking the trails at the Sculpture Park in Orillia was a beautiful and memorable experience. I couldn’t help but think about how his music had been woven into the fabric of Canada’s history. More than just melodies, they’re stories that often capture the essence of the Canadian experience.

There is something special about visiting the final resting place of someone whose music has shaped the soundtrack of a country.

What is your favorite Gordon Lightfoot song?

Thanks for reading!

References:

  1. The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald by Gordon Lightfoot | S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Online
  2. Gordon Lightfoot | The Canadian Encyclopedia
  3. Location | City of Orillia
  4. The Tragedy | S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Online
  5. Gordon Lightfoot sculpture unveiled in Orillia | Orillia
  6. Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot dead at 84 | NBC News
  7. Jessie Vick Trill Lightfoot | Find a Grave
  8. Gordon Meredith Lightfoot Sr. | Find a Grave

Cemetery Recipes: Debbie’s Tea Biscuits

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For this month’s cemetery recipe, I wanted to try something a little less sugary after indulging in all the sweets this holiday season. So, when I came across this tea biscuit recipe, I thought it might be the perfect fit.

Most of the gravestone recipes I have come across in my research have been desserts, so I was pleasantly surprised when I found this biscuit recipe.

This recipe can be found on the gravestone of Debbie Ann Wilson McNutt, who is laid to rest in Pine Grove Cemetery in Stewiacke East, Nova Scotia. This my first Canadian gravestone recipe.

Debbie passed away on May 19, 2019, just 17 days after her birthday, following a long battle with cancer. She was 65. A beloved teacher and active member of her church, Debbie is remembered for her active lifestyle and for hosting family and friends in the summer.1 She is also fondly remembered for her tea biscuit recipe. According to family and friends, she made these biscuits about once a week.2

It was Debbie’s husband’s idea to engrave the recipe on her gravestone, hoping it would make people smile.2 This family recipe comes from Debbie’s mother, Jessie Wilson, who is still living. According to the family, the biscuits are best enjoyed topped with homemade jam.2

Tea Biscuit recipe on the gravestone of Debbie Ann McNutt. Photo by Rosie Grant.

Here is the recipe as written on the gravestone:

Tea Biscuits

  • 4 Cups Flour
  • 4 Tsp. Baking Powder
  • 1 Half Tsp. Baking Soda
  • 1 Tsp. Salt
  • 1 Quarter Cup Sugar

Mix in 4 heaping tbsp. lard. Stir in 2 cups of milk.

This recipe was also printed on a memorial card for Debbie, which includes the extra baking instructions2:

Roll out, bake at 400oF degrees until golden brown.

In the Kitchen

I have never made biscuits that didn’t come out of a can before, so I enjoyed putting this recipe together. It was very straightforward to follow and pretty quick and easy.

After setting my oven to preheat at 400oF and gathering all my ingredients, I followed the recipe’s instructions and mixed all the dry ingredients together. After adding the last two wet ingredients, I used a hand mixer to combine everything together.

This is where things got a bit messy, but I trusted the process. Using a hand mixer may not have been the wisest choice, but it got the job done. After the dough was ready, I put down a thin cutting board on my counter to create my rolling space. I floured the surface and my hands and rolled out the dough. The dough is very sticky, so I continuously had to flour the surface and my hands.

To cut out my biscuits, I used a drinking glass because I didn’t have a circular cookie cutter. I also had to repeatedly flour the rim of the glass so the dough wouldn’t stick.

This recipe made a fairly big batch—more than I thought it would. I prepared two baking sheets with parchment paper and placed the uncooked biscuits on the sheets as I cut them out.

Unfortunately, the recipe doesn’t say how long to bake the biscuits for, only stating to bake until golden brown. I didn’t want to guess, so I did Google how long they should be baked for, and I found that 8 to 16 minutes should do—or until golden brown.

I put them in the oven and set a timer for 8 minutes. They still needed a bit more time after that, so I put them in for another 2 minutes. That seemed to do the trick.

I can see why Debbie would make this at least once a week. They are quick and easy to make, and taste lovely!

Trying out these cemetery recipes always adds an extra layer of meaning to the experience, thanks to the special stories behind them. There’s something truly heartwarming about preparing and sharing a dish that has been passed down through generations—especially one that brings a person’s legacy to life.

Are you planning to try this recipe? Let me know how it turns out! Whether you enjoy your biscuits with jam or as part of a cozy meal, I’m sure they’ll taste even better knowing the meaningful history they carry with them.

Thanks for reading!

References:

  1. Debbie Ann McNutt obituary | Mattatall-Verner Funeral Home
  2. Ghostlyarchive | TikTok

Cemetery Book Review: Old Canadian Cemeteries

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I have spoken before about how there are very few books written about Canadian cemeteries. That’s why I jump at the chance to pick up new books on the subject. This month’s cemetery book review is a little different. This is a book that I have had sitting on my bookshelf, well, for years. I finally got around to reading it this past summer and I hate that I waited so long!
 
Old Canadian Cemeteries: Places of Memory by Jane Irwin and John Visser is a beautiful exploration of Canada’s vast cemeteries and graveyards.
 
Here is the synopsis from Goodreads:
 
“Canada abounds in historical burial places. Once you begin noticing their presence, old cemeteries seem to be everywhere. But these important links to the past are in danger of disappearing forever. The expansion of cities and roadways reclaim valuable land, and inscriptions are worn away by weather and time. Older cemeteries may be important records of immigration, settlement, armed forces, epidemics, class, and religious schisms, and upward mobility of ethnic groups. In Old Canadian Cemeteries, Jane Irwin invites the reader on a visual tour of historic cemeteries across Canada, examining such diverse topics Old Canadian Cemeteries is a must for anyone interested in Canadian history.”

  • Old Canadian Cemeteries: Places of Memory by Jane Irwin, photographs by John De Visser

Old Canadian Cemeteries is a beautifully put-together book that takes you on a journey through Canada’s historic graveyards. The hardcover edition is rich with vibrant, full-color images that really bring the cemeteries and their stories to life. I especially enjoyed reading about the places I’ve visited myself—it was exciting to recognize familiar spots and learn more about their history.

This book also explores the meanings behind gravestone symbols found in Canadian cemeteries, as well as how burial practices have evolved over time. It’s so fascinating to think about how cemeteries are so much more than just places where people are laid to rest—they are records of history.

I really wish I had read this book years ago, as it has added so much depth to my understanding of Canadian cemetery history. If you’re at all curious about Canada’s past or the stories cemeteries hold, this book is definitely worth picking up.

Overall, Old Canadian Cemeteries is a must for anyone interested in the history and beauty of Canadian cemeteries. Whether you’re a seasoned taphophile or just curious, this book is sure to inspire a deeper appreciaiton for these important places.
 
Thanks for reading!

I am always on the hunt for cemetery-related book recommendations. If you are an author and have a cemetery-related book you would like me to review, please reach out at hello@chantallarochelle.ca. I would love to hear from you.

Why I Love Cemeteries: Exploring Beauty and History

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I am someone who has always found beauty in unexpected places. I am also a very curious person and love to uncover hidden stories. That’s why I love sharing my experiences and discoveries with you!

As we step into a new year, I thought it would be a perfect time to reflect on something I am very passionate about—cemeteries.

Whether you’re new to the blog or a long-time reader, please indulge me as I share more about why I find these spaces so fascinating.

  • Bronte Cemetery, Oakville ON ©2024

For many, cemeteries might seem somber or even eerie places, but to me, they are so much more. They are open-air art galleries and museums. Each gravestone, mausoleum, and statue tells a story. The craftsmanship is often breathtaking, but there is beauty in everything—from the intricately carved angels to the weathered inscriptions that are just barely legible.

Some of my most memorable moments have been spent marveling at unique gravestones and wondering about the lives they represent. I have often come across a heartbreaking epitaph that has made me stop suddenly, creating an instant connection to someone from another time.

Cemeteries are like windows into history, serving as archives etched in stone. They showcase how cultures, traditions, and art have evolved through the years. Walking through an older cemetery really does feel like stepping back in time. You might find names that were once very common, family plots that tell stories of love and loss, or monuments commemorating an important historical event.

  • Old Stone Church Cemetery also known as Saint Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Beaverton ON ©2024

Cemeteries aren’t just places for remembering the past—they can also be vibrant spaces for the living.

Many people visit cemeteries for activities like walking, jogging, or bird-watching. The diversity of wildlife, trees, and flowers can also offer a quiet retreat for nature lovers. As an animal lover myself, I treasure the unexpected encounters with wildlife that cemeteries can provide, like watching a red cardinal perched on a gravestone, or hearing the distant gobble of a wild turkey while wandering among the tombstones.

Above all, cemeteries are filled with stories. Stories of those who are laid to rest, but also the stories we create when we visit them. Whether it’s a quiet moment of reflection, an unexpected historical discovery, or unraveling a cemetery mystery, these spaces remind us of the beauty and complexity of life.

  • Woodlawn Cemetery, Saskatoon SK ©2011

So, if you’ve never thought of cemeteries in this way, or you already have an appreciation for them, I hope this post inspires you to see them in a new light. If you are already a seasoned taphophile, I would love to hear about your favorite cemetery experiences in the comments.

Let’s celebrate these unique spaces together as we step into the new year!

Thanks for reading!

A Year in Review – 2024

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2024 is coming to a close, and I can’t help but feel incredibly thankful for all the opportunities, experiences, and connections this year has brought. From cemetery explorations to unexpected shoutouts, 2024 has been a year of gratitude, growth, and gravestone recipes!

So today on the blog, I want to reflect on some highlights that have made this year so memorable. From shoutouts and collaborations, here’s a look back at why I consider 2024 an exciting year.

Cemetery Adventures

This year, I was able to visit 117 new cemeteries, and revisited 9, bringing my total for this year to 126. Every cemetery visit is always an adventure, uncovering hidden stories and beautiful gravestones. One cemetery visit that stands out this year, was visiting the gravesite of Elizabeth Barnes, the Witch of Plum Hollow. Exploring the folklore and history surrounding this incredible woman was eye-opening. These experiences continue to remind me of the powerful connection between memory and place.

Mother Barnes Homestead

Mother Barnes gravestone and the Mother Barnes Homestead. ©2024

Highlights

One of my favorite projects this year was contributing a guest post to The Haunted Walk’s blog, titled Beyond the Headstones: 5 Surprising Secrets to Discover in Cemeteries. Writing this post gave me the chance to share some of the hidden stories and unexpected gems you can uncover in these places of rest.

Another exciting milestone was being interviewed for American Cemetery and Cremation Magazine. Being featured in their June issue, and sharing my passion for cemeteries and the stories they hold was such a rewarding experience.

Trying out gravestone recipes and sharing these experiences has been an ongoing passion project for me, and this year, it gained attention far beyond what I could imagine.

Cemetery Recipes: O’Neal’s Peach Cobbler

Cemetery Recipes: O’Neal’s Peach Cobbler

My gravestone recipe posts were referenced in the Bust article Take it to the Grave: Rosie Grant Went Viral for Recreating Gravetsone Recipes. Although the article features fellow taphophile Rosie Grant’s amazing work, it also linked to my Peach Cobbler and Chicken Soup recipe posts, connecting people to my blog. Seeing my blog posts highlighted as part of a broader cultural conversation about food, memory, and legacy feels a bit surreal.

Other press highlights included Funeral Basics linking to my blog post about Connie’s Date & Nut Bread, and the New York Post directing readers to the cemetery recipes on my website. These moments are heartwarming reminders of how food can connect us to the past in meaningful ways.

The international attention has been just as exciting! An Italian article explored the growing trend of gravestone recipes and referenced my work, while the Czech publication Neviditelny Pes also referenced my work and highlighted the charm of these recipes carved in stone.

Maybe the most thrilling moment for me though, was receiving a shoutout from Rhett and Link on their Good Mythical Morning episode, We Try Cemetery Food. Watching them discuss my work was an unforgettable moment that brought a whole new audience to my blog, and I am very grateful for their support.

Collaborations

This year, I loved working with my friends over at the Bereavement Authority of Ontario. I had the pleasure of contributing some freelance photography to the August issue of Beyond magazine. Their publication is filled with educational and thought-provoking content and seeing my work featured in their layout is a great milestone.

  • Beyond. The Bereavement Authority of Ontario magazine. August 2024. Cover photo by Chantal Larochelle ©2024

I am truly appreciative for all this recognition. None of which would be possible without the incredible community of readers, collaborators, and supporters who’ve been with me on this journey. Whether you have followed along for the recipes, the cemetery exploring, or the stone stories, thank you for being a part of this adventure.

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited to continue exploring, writing, and sharing these unique experiences. Here’s to another year of meaningful connections and unexpected discoveries!

How was your 2024? I’d love to hear about your highlights and plans for the coming year in the comments.

Thanks for reading!

The Beauty and Symbolism of Cemeteries in Winter

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As winter settles in, it’s hard to ignore the changing of the seasons. The chilly air, shorter days, and the snow-covered gravestones mark the end of field season for me. I have always seen snow-covered cemeteries as just too risky to explore—both for me and the gravestones.

While the cold usually keeps me indoors for the next couple of months, it brings something special to the cemeteries I love so much. There is a stillness in the air, and cemeteries in winter do offer something unique that cemeteries in the warmer months just don’t have.

  • Civic Cemetery, Sudbury ON ©2024

Winter is often seen as a time for rest and renewal. Nature takes a break during these colder months, and cemeteries seem to do the same. The chill in the air makes everything feel still.

For me, the winter season is a time to focus on rest and recharging, while also refocusing on photo editing and research. Nothing is more relaxing to me than being curled up on the couch with a good book. But winter is also a time for reflection on life’s cycles. The season reminds us that life, like death, is all part of the same cycle. Nature’s rhythms, whether still still or full of growth are always changing, just like us.

I’ll be honest, winter is not my favorite season, and I don’t have a lot of experience visiting cemeteries in the snow. The bitter cold and early darkness does not appeal to me. But I will admit that cemeteries in winter have an almost haunting beauty that I can’t ignore.

The bare trees against a pale sky, and the contrast between the dark gravestones against white snow, create a mood that’s both peaceful and a bit mysterious. It’s the kind of scene that makes you stop for a moment.

Even though this isn’t the time I usually seek out cemeteries, I made an effort this weekend to stop in to one, to appreciate the unique atmosphere it creates.

  • Civic Cemetery, Sudbury ON ©2024

One interesting thing I found about cemeteries in the winter is the light. With the sun being lower in the sky, the light creates long and dramatic shadows, adding texture and depth to the landscape. I find the gravestones just look different in the winter light.

The unique angles of the light during winter do make it a great time to play around with shadows and textures. For anyone interested in photography, winter cemeteries offer a chance to capture the landscape in a new way.

  • Civic Cemetery, Sudbury ON ©2024

As I think about how winter enhances the beauty of cemeteries, I realize that the symbolism of the season offers us an important reminder of the ongoing cycle of life. Winter is a time of rest and reflection, but it’s also a time to prepare for what comes next.

So will you be visiting any cemeteries this winter? Whether you’re stopping by to honor a loved one or just take in the beauty of the season, cemeteries in the winter do have a lot to offer.

Thanks for reading!

Cemetery Book Review: Over My Dead Body

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For this month’s cemetery book review, I want to share another pick from the Association for Gravestone Studies Book Club. Published in 2023, Over My Dead Body: Unearthing the Hidden History of America’s Cemeteries is a spirited tour through some historic cemeteries in the United States.

Written by Greg Melville, an adventure journalist, and fellow taphophile, Over My Dead Body explores the many facets of how and why we bury our dead. From history, to land use and sustainability, this book covers a little of everything.

Here is the synopsis from Goodreads:

“Melville’s Over My Dead Body is a lively (pun intended) and wide-ranging history of cemeteries, places that have mirrored the passing eras in history but have also shaped it. Cemeteries have given birth to landscape architecture and famous parks, as well as influenced architectural styles. They’ve inspired and motivated some of our greatest poets and authors—Emerson, Whitman, and Dickinson. They have been used as political tools to shift the country’s discourse and as important symbols of the United States’ ambition and reach.”

  • Over My Dead Body: Unearthing the Hidden History of America’s Cemeteries by Greg Melville.

Over My Dead Body is a fun and easy-to-read exploration of some of America’s most historic cemeteries. I have the softcover edition, which is perfect for lounging with on a weekend afternoon. Each chapter focuses on a different cemetery, where Melville shares both the history of the place and his personal experience visiting it. I really enjoyed how each chapter felt like a history lesson and a travelogue rolled into one.

What made the book especially enjoyable for me was how much Melville’s passion for cemeteries mirrored my own. Even though I am exploring cemeteries here in Canada while he is in the U.S., his observations and reflections on the stories these places hold felt familiar. I felt like Melville might be a kindred spirit—someone who gets why we’re drawn to cemeteries in the first place.

The book is lighthearted for the most part, but it does touch on some darker aspects of history. It made me think deeply about how cemeteries not only reflect the past but also shape the way we remember those who came before us.

So if you are fascinated by cemeteries and the stories they hold, I highly recommend Over My Dead Body by Greg Melville. Its unique blend of history, personal reflection, and insightful exploration will appeal to both casual readers and avid taphophiles alike.

Have you read Over My Dead Body? I would love to read your thoughts about it in the comments.

Thanks for reading! 

I am always on the hunt for cemetery-related book recommendations. If you are an author and have a cemetery-related book you would like me to review, please reach out at hello@chantallarochelle.ca. I would love to hear from you.

A Gift Guide for Taphophiles: 2024 Edition

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The holiday season is officially upon us, so it’s time to start thinking about the perfect gifts for the taphophiles in your life!

Whether you’re shopping for a friend who has a deep love of cemeteries, or a family member who enjoys the fascinating history of gravestones, this year’s 2024 gift guide has something unique for everyone.

This year, my round-up features 13 unique items from stunning jewelry and a death-positive card game, to cemetery-related books and even a set of crayons for the creatively inclined.

Whether they’re into history, art, or just a bit of cemetery fun, these handpicked items will surely delight all the graveyard enthusiasts in your life!

  • A gift guide for taphophiles: 2024 edition

222 Cemeteries to See Before You Die by Loren Rhoads

Perfect for aspiring cemetery explorers and dedicated taphophiles alike, this beautiful guide to the world’s most fascinating and offbeat cemeteries has been freshly updated with 23 new, must-see locations. It is a must-have for any cemetery lover’s bookshelf!

  • 222 Cemeteries to See Before You Die by Loren Rhoads. Photo from Amazon.ca

2025 Gravestones Calendar

This 2025 calendar by stonecutter Andrew Carr, also known as Stones Over Bones on Etsy, features 12 stunning photos of intricate gravestones carved by some of the finest New England artisans. It’s a year-round celebration of cemetery symbolism and art. This would make a great gift for anyone who appreciates the beauty of gravestones.

  • 2025 Gravestones Calendar created by stonecutter, Andrew Carr. Photo supplied.

Classic Gravestone T-shirt

This classic gravestone design by PoisonBlood on Red Bubble, is a simple, yet stylish way to wear your love of cemeteries. Featuring a clean white gravestone print with the iconic R.I.P. message, this shirt is a bold yet subtle statement. Available in a variety of colors, it’s a perfect everyday tee.

  • Classic Gravestone T-Shirt, design by Poison Blood. Photo from Red Bubble.

Cooking with Ghosts: A Grief and Recipe Journal by Mortician in the Kitchen

This beautifully designed book blends the mindful practice of journaling with the comfort of cooking. Like a gravestone preserves memories, this book helps you honor loved ones by reflecting on shared meals and documenting family recipes. With prompts to guide your memories and blank recipe pages to record treasured dishes, it’s a unique way to keep those connections alive.

Please note that this book currently only ships within the United States.

  • Cooking with Ghosts: A Grief and Recipe Journal by Mortician in the Kitchen. Photo taken from the Mortician in the Kitchen website.

The Death Deck

The Death Deck is the perfect party game to break the taboo around talking about death. With 112 cards full of multiple-choice and open-ended questions, this game will have you, and your family and friends surprising each other with lively conversation about death—and you might even learn something new about yourselves.

  • The Death Deck. Photo from the Death Deck website.

Early New England Cemetery Stone Stickers

Everybody loves stickers! These Early New England Cemetery Stone stickers by Gh0stBreathArt are inspired by gravestones from the 1600s-1700s. Each sticker showcases a unique design, along with the name of the original stone carver. Perfect for decorating laptops, water bottles, or notebooks.

  • Early New England Cemetery Stone stickers by Gh0stBreathArt. Photo from Etsy.

Grave Moss Pendant

This grave moss pendant, created by Mist Metal and Stone, is a truly unique piece of jewelry, made from real moss carefully collected (with permission) from a late 1800s gravestone. The moss is preserved in eco resin and set in steel, creating a one-of-kind keepsake. Be sure to check out the rest of their Etsy shop, as they offer many other unique and beautiful pieces for sale.

  • Grave Moss Pendant created by Mist Metal and Stone. Photo from Etsy.

Gravestone Crayon Set

These fun and quirky gravestone-shaped crayons, created by In Wonderment on Etsy, make a unique and playful gift! This set includes 6 multi-colored crayons, each featuring a different gravestone design. Hand-poured from 100% Crayola crayons, they are perfect for art lovers, and creative types.

  • Gravestone Crayon Set created by In Wonderment. Photo from Etsy.

Guess Where Trips

Guess Where Trips offers a fun and adventurous way to explore new places with a twist of mystery! Each trip includes a Before You Go package and four surprise stops filled with unique destinations, recommendations, and fun facts. You can choose from a variety of day trips based on your interests, but I wanted to highlight two of the trips that feature cemeteries: Historic Haunts and Beautifully Haunted.

This summer, I had the chance to experience their Historic Haunts tour and had an amazing time exploring spooky spots like haunted buildings and eerie cemeteries.

  • Historic Haunts tour by Guess Where Trips. Photo from my own Historic Haunts Tour, Summer of 2024.

I Forgot Something 8×10 Art Print

Created by Night Spirit Studio, this beautiful art print titled I Forgot Something is inspired by 1800s mourning watercolor paintings. These mourning paintings were historically created by schoolgirls and featured gravestone symbolism like urns and weeping willows. With its giclée print quality and haunting design, this vintage-inspired piece would make a lovely addition to any art collection.

  • I Forgot Something 8×10 Art Print created by Night Spirit Studio. Photo from Etsy.

Oval Burial Plot Necklace

Created by Mockingbird Lane Artistries, this darkly beautiful piece blends together art, history, and nature. Featuring a hand-painted mini gravestone, lichen harvested from a cemetery, and graveyard dirt from the filming location of Night of the Living Dead. This lovely piece would make a perfect addition to any jewelry or film memorabilia collection.

  • Oval Burial Plot Necklace created by Mockingbird Lane Artistries. Photo from Mockingbird Lane Artistries website.

Pleasure Grounds of Death: The Rural Cemetery in Nineteenth-Century America by Joy M. Giguere

Pleasure Grounds of Death explores the fascinating history of how rural cemeteries became popular spots for strolls and picnics, and grew to influence American culture, community identity, and social issues of the time. A perfect read for history lovers, cemetery enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the cultural significance of these beautiful resting places.

  • Pleasure Grounds of Death: The Rural Cemetery in Nineteenth-Century America by Joy M. Giguere. Photo from Amazon.ca

Support Your Local Cemetery Sweatshirt

The Support Your Local Cemetery sweatshirt from Everything After Co. on Etsy is a perfect blend of humor and dark aesthetic, making it an ideal gift for any taphophile. Featuring a retro design, it comes in four different colors and is made from a comfortable cotton-polyester blend—perfect for lounging or cemetery exploring.

  • Support Your Local Cemetery sweatshirt from Everything After Co. Photo from Etsy.

As you navigate the holiday season in search of the perfect gift, remember that it’s the thought behind the gifts that make it truly special. Whether your gifting something spooky, historical or simply unique, these items are sure to spark conversation and bring joy.

Happy gifting, and thanks for reading!

Cemetery Photography by Chantal Larochelle is not affiliated with any of the brands or artists featured in this guide, and I do not receive any compensation or proceeds from sales. I am simply sharing products I love!

Cemetery Recipes: Texas Sheet Cake

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With my birthday coming up at the end of the month, I thought it would be fun to try out a cake recipe for this month’s gravestone recipe. I found the perfect fit with this Texas Sheet Cake.

This recipe can be found on the gravestone of Helen Rose (Keathley) Sweers, who is laid to rest in Blain Cemetery in Cutlerville, Michigan.

  • Gravestone of Helen Sweers. Photo by Find a Grave contributor, Photograver Lori.

Sweers passed away on December 30, 2017, at the age of 77. Her brief obituary describes her as a wife, mother, and grandmother, who deeply loved God, her family, and everyone in her life.1

While her obituary doesn’t mention a passion for baking, the recipe engraved on the back of her gravestone tells a different story.

“Made with Love by Helen Sweers”

  • Texas sheet cake recipe on gravestone of Helen Sweers
    Texas Sheet Cake Recipe. Photo by Find a Grave contributor, G.

Texas Sheet Cake

(As inscribed on the gravestone of Helen Sweers)

Made with Love by Helen Sweers

  • 2 Sticks Butter
  • 1 Cup Water
  • 3 Tbs Cocoa
  • 2 Cups Flour, Sifted
  • 2 Cups White Sugar
  • 2 Eggs
  • 1/2 Cup Sour Milk
  • 1/2 Tsp Salt
  • 1 Tsp Baking Soda
  • 1 Tsp Baking Powder

Bring butter, water, cocoa to a boil. In a bowl mix flour, sugar, eggs, sour milk, salt, baking soda and baking powder. Mix well. Add boiled mixture to flour mixture. Pour on a greased jelly roll pan. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 15 minutes.

Frosting

1 stick butter – melted
Then add:
⦁ 1/3 cup milk
⦁ 1 Tbs cocoa
⦁ 1 Tsp vanilla

Cook on stove top. When mixed add one box powdered sugar or about 4 cups. Pour onto hot cake. Spread. Top with walnuts.

In the Kitchen

I had never heard of Texas Sheet Cake before, so I did learn something new with this recipe. A Texas Sheet Cake is a chocolate cake, baked in a jelly roll pan (which is a pan similar to a cookie sheet, but deeper). This gives the cake its signature large, thin shape.

I ended up purchasing a jelly roll pan specifically to make this recipe. It could double as a cookie sheet if needed, but I think I’ll use it again for future baking, so I will get some use out of it either way.

The ingredients for this recipe are mostly staples, so I didn’t need to make an extra grocery trip. However, I did have questions about the sour milk.

Sour milk has a tart taste, either because it’s just starting to spoil or because it was soured on purpose.2 This made me think that this might be a Depression-era recipe, as many recipes of that time were designed to avoid food waste and used sour milk.2 Buttermilk could be a good substitute for sour milk, but I opted to make my own. I found sour milk recipes online that called for 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice, for 1 cup of milk. This recipe only calls for a 1/2 cup of sour milk, so I used a 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar.

I let the sour milk sit for a few minutes to curdle while I gathered the rest of my ingredients and preheated the oven.

The recipe instructions are clear so I didn’t have any trouble mixing everything together. I was a bit concerned when it came time to pour the batter into the jelly roll pan. I voiced those concerns to Helen, while I poured in the batter. Talking to the person whose recipe I’m following makes me feel like they’re with me in the kitchen. It can sometimes be a comforting reminder to trust the process.

The pan was quite full, but I had faith that it would work out. And it did—well, sort of. I put the pan in the oven and let it bake for the full 15 minutes. I used the classic toothpick test to see if it was ready, but ended up needing to bake it for 5 more minutes, and then another 5 minutes after that. The center was quite thick and needed a bit more time to bake all the way through.

While the cake baked, I worked on the frosting. Since I had to bake the cake a little longer, I kept the frosting on low heat so it would be ready when the cake was done.

The recipe says to pour the frosting onto the hot cake. The cake didn’t rise, but it didn’t have a lot of room for icing either and I was afraid it would spill over the sides and make a big mess. To avoid that, I used a spatula to carefully spread small amounts at a time. In the end, I was able to cover the whole cake without any issues. I then topped it with a handful of walnuts.

After it cooled, the frosting firmed up a bit, creating a nice crackle when you sliced through the cake.

Texas Sheet Cake, recipe from the gravestone of Helen Sweers.

I love the way this Texas Sheet Cake turned out!

It’s chocolatey and moist, but the real highlight is the frosting. It adds just the right sweetness, although I’ll warn you—it’s really sweet, so a little slice goes a long way.

This cake is big, making it perfect for sharing at a family gathering or other special occasion. I made it to celebrate my birthday, and it was perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Recreating these gravestone recipes has become a meaningful way for me to connect with those whose stories live on in such a personal way. It’s a comforting reminder that food has a power that can bring us together, even across time. I always say that recreating these gravestone recipes really is the sweetest way to remember someone.

Will you be giving this recipe a try? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and experiences in the comments.

Thanks for reading!

References:

  1. Helen Sweers Obituary | Grand Rapids Press
  2. What Is Sour Milk — And Is It Safe To Use? | All Recipes

Stone Stories: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

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In honor of Remembrance Day this year, Monday, November 11th, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this solemn occasion and the powerful symbol of sacrifice that is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

This day, which marks the end of hostilities during the First World War and honors all who have served in times of conflict, holds deep meaning for Canadians. While Remembrance Day has been observed since 1919, its evolution over the years—from its origins as Armistice Day to the shift in date and name in 1931—demonstrates its lasting importance in our collective memory.1 In this week’s post, I want to delve into the history behind the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute that today stands as a symbol of the many soldiers who gave their lives without recognition.

  • Lasalle Cemetery, Sudbury ON ©2011

The Unknown Soldier

The tomb of the unknown soldier lies in front of the National War Memorial at Parliament Hill. The large monument, a cenotaph, was unveiled in 1939 to commemorate the Canadian response to the First World War. It has grown to symbolize the sacrifice of all Canadians who have served in times of war.2

  • National War Memorial. Parliament Hill, Ottawa ON ©2024

The Royal Canadian Legion, with help from Veteran’s Affairs Canada, began work to bring the Unknown Soldier home in the spring of 1998.3 As a Millenium project, this undertaking was not an easy task and many veterans were anxious to see this tomb built, as a reminder for new generations of the cause and consequences of war.3,4

Exhaustive work was completed to choose the remains that would be repatriated. The remains were selected from among 6,846 unknown soldiers of the First World War.5 The set of remains that now lie at rest in the sarcophagus at the base of the war memorial comes from Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery, in Souchez, France.4

The Unknown Soldier’s remains were exhumed on May 25, 2000, by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The remains were then repatriated to Canada in a Canadian Forces aircraft, where they would lay in state for three days in the Hall of Honor in the Centre Block of Parliament.5 On May 28, 2000, the remains were laid to rest in a sarcophagus made of granite, during an interment ceremony. Soil from each Canadian province and territory was placed on the casket. They also included some soil from France.6

The inscription on the tomb reads “The Unknown Soldier / Le Soldat inconnu”. There is also a brass plaque embedded in the ground in front of the tomb which reads: “Here lie the remains / of Canada’s Unknown Soldier. / Please treat this grave / with respect.”

The tomb of the Unknown Soldier
A sign that says "Respect and Silence" found at the tomb of the unknown soldier, in Ottawa
The tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The plaque found at the base of the grave of the unknown soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Parliament Hill, Ottawa ON ©2024

The tombstone marking the first resting place of our unknown soldier, in France, was also brought to Canada and now hangs in the Memorial Hall of the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.

The inscription reads: “A Soldier / of the Great War / A Canadian Regiment / Known Unto God”

  • Original gravestone of the Unknown Soldier, Canadian War Museum. Photo by Craig Baird, Canadian History Ehx https://canadaehx.com/ Photo used with permission.

The Memorial Hall of the Canadian War Museum has a unique design feature, where every year on November 11th, at 11 a.m. the sun filters through a window in the hall, directly illuminating the headstone.7

A new gravestone was placed to mark the original burial site, now empty, in Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery. The stone, similar in appearance to the original gravestone, is engraved with a maple leaf and the following epitaph, “The Former Grave Of An / Unknown Canadian Soldier / Of The First World War. / His Remains Were Removed / On 25 May 2000 And Now / Lie Interred At The / National War Memorial / In Ottawa Canada.”4

The Changing of the Guard

This summer, while I was visiting family in Ottawa, I had the opportunity to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the changing of the guard.

Since 2007, the Canadian Armed Forces have posted sentries to stand guard at the tomb, with a rotation of personnel from the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Canadian Ranger units from across the country.8 During the summer months, the changing of the guard ceremony occurs every hour, on the hour, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The ceremony is a somber occasion that reflects respect for Canada’s fallen soldiers. As the sentries execute their precise and disciplined movements, the atmosphere was heavy with reverence. The ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and those who gave their lives in service.

While visiting the tomb, I was struck by the weight of history and felt the significance of honoring those whose identities may be lost, but whose sacrifices will never be forgotten.

  • The changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Parliament Hill, Ottawa ON ©2024

We will never know the identity of the Unknown Soldier—but that’s the point.

In war, the remains of soldiers may be badly damaged, or destroyed. Even though a great effort was made to find and identify remains, many were not found at all. Almost 20,000 Canadians who died in the First World War have no identifiable graves.4 Some could only be identified as Canadians, by uniform buttons or badges, and were buried with a simple military marker, like our unknown soldier.4

So this Remembrance Day, as we pause to honor the sacrifices of those who served, remember also the unknown soldier—the many who gave their lives, whose identities are now lost to history.

Lest we forget.

References:

  1. Remembrance Day| Canadian War Museum
  2. National War Memorial | Veterans Affairs Canada
  3. Bringing the Unknown Soldier Home | Legion
  4. Questions and Answers | Veterans Affairs Canada
  5. The Unknown Soldier | Canadian War Museum
  6. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier | Government of Canada
  7. Canadian History Ehx’s Post | Facebook
  8. National Sentry Program | Government of Canada