Have you ever wondered about the history of cemeteries? About what all those symbols on gravestones mean and why they’re there?

Cemeteries are unsung historical heroes: They have served as green spaces, as art musuems, and as caches of genealogical information that might otherwise have been lost. Landscape architecture has its roots in cemeteries, as do public parks. Rare species of plants have been found in cemeteries. Cemeteries reflect our history, biases, trends, and preoccupations, both in deep and trivial ways.

Grave markers, especially those from older cemeteries, speak with their own language and symbolism, which can lead to a richer understanding of the lives of the “residents” of historic cemeteries.

Join presenter Maya Bringe for this entertaining afternoon program about what to look for in cemeteries, why they are still important, and why you might want to be a taphophile (a person interested in cemeteries and gravestones), too!

The program is free to members, with a $5 suggested donation for nonmembers. Refreshments will be served. Parking is available in the back of the building.