Page 129 - Demo

AnimalsIdidn%u2019t originally plan to include animals in this book. However, after I started seeing them, in such wonderful interpretations, and in a variety of settings, I decided to photograph them as well. It was as though, through their uniqueness, they told me they wanted to be included on these pages. Obviously important, they were erected either as symbols or as reminders of lifetime companions. By far, the most common cemetery animals are lambs and doves%u2014representing innocence%u2014which often sit atop the gravestones of children. Sadly, time and acid rain have eroded, into unrecognizability, the smaller of these marble or limestone beasts. But I%u2019ve also found a variety of other larger, handsome animals, and many are in much better condition%u2014among them are several dogs, lions, and eagles, two horses, two swans, and a cat. Of those that were faithful pets, I sense a deep and abiding love that the survivors who erected them must have known quite well. All patiently sit, perch, stand, and kneel for eternity.Walnut Hill CemeteryPike Co. (378-12)St. Mary%u2019s CemeteryFloyd Co. (327-10)