Thursday, November 12, 2009

Albany Rural Cemetery...






In 1841, in response to a growing problem with flooding at the State Street Burial Ground (in downtown Albany), and continued deterioration of church cemeteries, a public movement was undertaken to purchase and develop a “Rural Cemetery,” beautifully landscaped and safely outside the city. This led to the incorporation of Albany Rural Cemetery on April 2, 1841.

I had heard for years that it's a beautiful place to visit, and unlike many cemeteries, dogs are allowed (on leash). So Max and I took advantage of a warm, late fall day for a long walk this past weekend. The cemetery is only a few miles from my house, and it will now be a regular walking spot for me and Max, when we need a change of scenery. It is a place of uncommon peace and amazing beauty. Not just the landscape, with 400 acres of narrow winding roads, gnarly ancient trees, and trickling streams, but the monuments as well. Majestic stones carved into angels and crosses twenty feet high, and delicate detailed borders ideal for graphite rubbings. I can hardly wait to return (above ground, that is.)

3 comments:

Createology said...

There is a quiet peace about being "above ground" and able to walk in an ancient cemetery with it's old and ornate headstones and wonderful names of the past. We have many here in our area and elementary class students walk to them as a field trip just to do graphite rubbings. Your black and white photos are wonderful.

Anonymous said...

BEAUTIFUL. This might sound strange, but I love cemetarys. They don't seem to creep me out at all, but are peaceful and interesting...and amazingly beautiful. Thanks for sharing your new "haunt" with us! =)

Peggy Beck said...

Hi Kerri. Absolutely love your new header. The colors are right up there on my favorites list. Also you never miss seeing all the beauty in life. I never would have noticed that bird nest in the tree, but you see it all. A lesson in observation is had. Thanks. Beautiful pictures.