We have visited numerous cemeteries over the years, as they offer a unique opportunity to appreciate art, and we also view them as a way to remember people we never met. I can imagine that most of the graves we have visited no longer get visitors, and we might be the first in a very long time.
Some cemeteries, especially older ones in affluent areas, feature the grandest memorials. These can be large, detailed carved stones, tall obelisks, mausoleums, or statues.
However, unlike the richer parts of society, the Washtenong Memorial Park has none of what we have come to expect when we are touring cemeteries, with the exception of one statue.
Located behind the building is a statue of an angel holding a dead baby. This statue is titled ‘On Angel’s Wings.‘ The natural weathering of the metal gives it a look that resembles the angel weeping. It is a powerful and sombre tribute.
I had considered looking up the history of this memorial, but is there really a need? The statue says everything that happened: a family lost a child who was so very young. This is every parent’s worst nightmare, and knowing every detail will not lessen the pain of what they went through. This is a level of grief I never want to experience. It troubles me now, just thinking about it.
Touring cemeteries can be fun, finding art, and seeing where historic people are buried, but then there are these large reminders that we are in a graveyard —a place where pain is laid to rest.
- Find this location on my “All The Places We Have Been” map.
- When touring cemeteries, please be respectful, especially if it is apparent that family members are visiting.
