Dead On

It is common for folks in the upper plains to dream about sunnier climes in the winter. Some folks become snowbirds, enjoying warmth and no snow removal for several months. Others plan trips to places such as Florida or the Dominican Republic, enjoying beaches and no parkas. And some of us hunker down in the tundra, perhaps reading a few books with main characters in warmer settings.

Recently, my paths crossed with two individuals who were planning Florida getaways. As I shuttled Individual A to the airport, I asked, "What are you looking forward to in Florida?" She immediately launched into an itinerary of favorite restaurants and islands she enjoys visiting. I nodded and wished her safe travels as I cranked the heat in my vehicle. Individual B was part of last weekend's birding field trip (mostly car birding due to glacial winds that day). I asked him the same question, "What are you looking forward to in Florida?" Without hesitation he described some of the best birding areas and described some of the birds he hoped to see. I smiled and told him I was feeling a bit jealous.

It is not surprising that we chase our passions. It is difficult for a birder to go anywhere without checking for avian activity. Our January bird trip involved a drive through two local cemeteries in search of White-winged Crossbills. They are fairly uncommon in our area but are attracted to the seeds of spruce cones found in the cemeteries. I feel they are smart to hang out with the quiet crowd.

Our trip was not successful in spotting Crossbills but I couldn't help exploring the interesting headstones. Mt. Pleasant Cemetery is one of our state's oldest continuously operating cemeteries in the state, established in 1873. It has graves of Civil War veterans and Fort Dakota soldiers, to name a few.

A return visit to Mt. Pleasant on a balmy afternoon this week was indeed a pleasant way to roam the real estate of the dead. Here are a few observations.

This marker seems to suggest a story. What happened to Rank/Frank? Did he return to the east coast after losing Martha? Was there no money left to add the final engraving? I could certainly make up a tale or two but out of respect for the dead I will let the whispers of the pines keep their secrets.

Some folks go all out with their markers. Perhaps this obelisk is an attempt to raise the spirits toward heaven in an expedited manner. I found it a little ostentatious but I am not one for worshiping the dead.

This marker is more my speed. It is simple, to the point and tucked into nature. Good enough.

The restored chapel near the entrance is a beautiful building with stained glass windows. I took a chance and checked the front door. To my surprise it opened. The coffin that greeted me by the door was filled with something. I chose not to investigate and I will spare you any further description.

I am not sure what happened to the Wellers but I feel it may have been particularly sad. Only Baby Lane had professional etching on the stone. I can only imagine the rest of the story. There is an authenticity in the crude writing on the other stones that I appreciate.

Perhaps one of the most notable markers is a reminder of the Lacey-Bunker story . In 1893 a "most awful tragedy" occurred in Sioux Falls. A prominent lawyer (Lacey) walked into the house of his mother-in-law (Bunker). Harry Lacey shot his mother-in-law as well as his wife (Clara) in quick fashion. He then went outside, sat in a wheelbarrow and shot himself. The apparent cause was a money dispute. The monument features their names on the faces of the same marker. One wonders about the choice to bury them all together but I guess there is no need to think further damage could occur.

This one wins the award for most unique marker. The designer was intentionally thoughtful and I hope the process was a healing experience. Rest easy, little one.

I wasn't the only breathing mammal amongst the stones. This fella kept a watchful eye on me before he took off and waved his white tail in a hasty farewell.

If you are in the mood for a cemetery picnic, might I recommend this lovely table. I guarantee a sense of peace and quiet. And if you are really lucky, you might even spot a White-winged Crossbill.