I spend a lot of time at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the second oldest cemetery in the United States and a National Historic Landmark. It has some of the most beautiful trees and flowerbeds in the area. It is also the home of my favorite swans and I will be spending eternity in drawer #77 - or as my husband refers to it "77 Sunset Strip." Earlier this year I started photographing some of the doorways. They are as varied as they are beautiful. Many, as you can see here, are backed by glorious strained glass that light them from within and fronted by intricate ironworks.
I can't imagine what these family tombs must have felt like years ago as you went in them time after time leaving behind a new occupant in the stack of coffins - comforting or just creepy. The names that go along with these are old Cincinnati institutions are mostly pretty well known in the area. It sounds so counter what a cemetery is all about but the place is alive. There are walking paths, packs of runners, summer concerts and movies. "In life and in death we belong to God."
I knew this was yours as soon as I saw the title . You stopped posting shortly after you acquired 77 Sunset strip and I remember your discussions about choosing a spot for your eternity. I also just noticed your new profile shot...beautiful... and read your update. I am so happy for you in all your successes Cathy
I really like this collage of doors. Each one interesting in its own way and collectively.
I am drawn to old doors as well and this is such a beautiful display of them! You make me want to visit Cincinnati, since I'm only about 1 1/2 hours away. We have a nice cemetery and arboretum nearby in Lexington that I love to go to but I'd love to visit those in your area. I've taken a few moments to look through your project and you have some wonderful artwork! Fav.
I know you are going to occupy 77 Sunset Strip too, I remember you telling us how you loved that place, so very comforting to get to know where your earthly body will rest. What are the doorways for, are they large family tombs? Love the green theme & number middle bottom the best.
@happypat these are all doors to old crypts. Some you can see the stained glass through. So many of these tombs are larger than small houses. It was an era of ostentatiousness.
I really like this collage of doors. Each one interesting in its own way and collectively.