description Key West Cemetery Overview
The Key West Cemetery is a historic municipal cemetery located on the island of Key West, Florida, in the United States. Established in its current location in 1847 following a hurricane, it contains approximately 100,000 interments, a number exceeding the city's living population. Due to the island's high water table, many graves are marked by above-ground vaults and concrete crypts. The cemetery includes sections for various religious, fraternal, and cultural groups.
help Key West Cemetery FAQ
Why are the graves in the Key West Cemetery above ground?
The Key West Cemetery is famous for its above-ground vaults and crypts because the island sits at a very low elevation. These structures are necessary to protect the graves from the frequent flooding and high water table common in the Florida Keys.
When was the Key West Cemetery established?
The current cemetery was officially established in 1847 following a devastating hurricane that exposed bodies in earlier burial grounds. It was moved to higher ground in the center of Key West to prevent future disturbances.
How many people are buried in the Key West Cemetery?
The cemetery encompasses roughly 19 acres and is the final resting place for over 100,000 people. This staggering number actually outnumbers the living residents currently residing in the city of Key West.
What are some famous epitaphs found at the Key West Cemetery?
Visitors often flock to see the famously humorous tombstone that reads, "I told you I was sick," belonging to resident B.P. Roberts. Another notable memorial is the pristine crypt dedicated to the victims of the USS Maine explosion.
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