GREEN-WOOD CEMETERY

A STORY for Introverts:

I don’t know the percentage, but a number of people in this world find visiting a cemetery an easygoing activity. They aren’t visiting any grave in particular; to them, the trip is nostalgic for different reasons. They visit for the peace and quiet, the connection to nature, or to enjoy the spooky and supernatural sensations that naturally permeate such a place, among other reasons. For the people who believe cemeteries are creepy or dangerous, even sacred, strolling through the headstones without intention might sound morbid or disrespectful. We beg to differ. And introverts will agree that the solitude of a cemetery is alluring.

Because it’s Halloween season, and I did promise spookier material, I should be telling you how haunted and frightening the Green-Wood Cemetery is. On the contrary, Green-Wood offers a calm and regenerative energy. Yes, it’s full of dead people, but it’s full of the living as well (to the point that an introvert might feel a bit smothered). Not to worry, Green-Wood is big enough for everybody. I was never at a loss for new winding paths to steer clear of oncoming traffic, literally and figuratively, because there’s a working road through the yards. In my head, the cemetery was littered with shaded stone benches next to quiet plots. You know, the perfect place to read. While I did find a cozy nook, there were fewer resting places for the living than I’d expected.

The Matthews family was kind enough to host me for about an hour so that I could sneak in a chapter or two. I’ve never put much thought into my future plot, but when the time comes, I might look for a spot like theirs: on a private little knoll with lots of shade for any readers passing by. On the other side of the road, a team of artists and engineers constructed some massive, tangled art piece. Although it was unfinished, what was erected felt sinister and inviting. Something fit for a cemetery. I can’t wait to visit again when the structure is complete.

Speaking of art, are you wondering why a cemetery would bother installing art? Then this handsome garden of life and death isn’t for you. Decorated headstones and elaborate statues and mausoleums are everywhere. They honor the dead and ease the living. If you think the work is wasted, I suggest spending your day elsewhere.

Wandering is the best advice I can give you. Brick paths are tucked under sagging trees and up steep hills waiting around every corner. Some provide stunning views of the cemetery and beyond, but some provide shelter from the other guests and workers. Take your time, because this place is vast and you could be here all day. Watch your step and read the gravestones. Explore. Stand still and take it in. There’s no one way to be respectful of the residents, but I guess that they’re just happy to have any visitors.

For my fellow feminists, keep your eyes peeled for the statue of a mighty man defeating the venomous woman in chains. It’s a lovely sculpture, but after reading part of its plaque, I found it less appealing. This isn’t the place for my full criticism of a misogynistic art piece, but know there’s plenty of one-sided history represented in old institutions like this.

Just-So-You-Know DETAILS:

Green-Wood Cemetery is so well known and often visited that you can pay for a membership with visiting perks. They have a full calendar of events, packed during this bewitching time of year, and they do sell out. This isn’t just a place for fans of Halloween, this is year-round entertainment for many people. The architecture and artistic landscape lure one crowd in, but the history and tranquility entice a different kind of audience. Even someone like Little Amal found this place worthy of a visit. If you don’t know, Little Amal (@walkwithamal on Instagram) is the 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl who travels the world spreading her message. Visit her website to find out why Amal is so important, but it speaks to Green-Wood’s popularity that she would choose to pass through here.

The GIST – Should You Visit Green-Wood Cemetery?

Not everyone wants to wander around a cemetery for fun, regardless of what month it is, but cemeteries are for the living as much as they are for the dead. Maybe more so. Introverts will enjoy the alone time, though keep in mind how busy such a beloved space can get. Even if you start feeling crowded in, there’s always an escape. Enjoy the immense beauty and see as much as possible, because the rest of the month will be far more haunted and depraved.

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Originally published on October 7, 2022.

Explore the cemetery’s expansive site.

The Summer Carnival post offers another kind of outdoor excursion.