August 29, 2024
“Enigmatic Epitaphs: Unusual Headstones”
Theme of Clay County’s Spoken-History Cemetery Tour
(VERMILLION, SD) - Hidden stories and symbolism on the unusual headstones of selected, former Clay County residents will be shared Monday, October 14, at 5:30 pm at the Bluff View/Calvary Cemetery (599 Pinehurst Avenue) in southeast Vermillion.
In the realm of remembrance, headstones which serve as enduring tributes to lives that have passed, some subtle detail may often be overlooked—the deep symbolism carved into these
stones. Far more than just decoration, these symbols can reveal a major part in a person’s story. A column can represent a noble life lived, or a tree stump may indicate a life interrupted. Each carving symbolizes a person’s own significance, revealing tales of resilience and faith in an existence beyond death.
In his master’s thesis, Gone to a Better Land: A Study of Gravestone Forms,
Art, and Symbolism,” Richard D. Harnois investigates the development and significance of designs, art, and symbols. His research includes local insights from his native Vermillion, which will be highlighted during the tour. The five featured stones are those of: Joseph H. Hinchliff (1834-1908); Mary (Hills) Lyon (~1833-1892); Charles S. Overhulse (1874-1894); John N. Rabusch (1867-1918); and, Niels Urup (1918-1996).
Ticket reservations are available until Friday, October 11th at the Austin-Whittemore House, 15 Austin Street ( south of the Historic Clay County Courthouse, downtown Vermillion). This historic home/museum is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. At Bluff View Cemetery, walk-ins will be accommodated on a space available basis. For questions or reservations contact [email protected] or call 605-624-8266. A $20 per person donation is suggested.
Mark your calendar for 5:30 pm October 14 and tour these “specially-marked” gravesites -- rain or shine. This is among the 2024 events hosted annually by the Clay County Historical Society.
###