Speaking Topics from . . . .
Katie Karrick
"The Cemetery Lady"
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Speaking Topics from . . . .Katie Karrick"The Cemetery Lady"
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A Sleeping Place: Cemetery Landscape Evolution & Gravestone Symbolism New ways of thinking about life, death, and the individual during the 1800s brought about a new kind of cemetery, with family plots, new symbols on markers, and the concept of the burial plot as a "sleeping place." Learn about Victorian symbolism that was used a common "language" to express ties to family members, organizations, religion and occupations. Endearing and even humorous symbolism from the 18th through the 20th centuries is discussed. |
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Stones & Bones: Cleveland's Historic Cemeteries ©This slide "tour" looks at some of Cleveland's oldest, most beautiful and sometimes, over-looked cemeteries. We can learn a great deal about our ancestors, public figures and society in general by examining our 19th century "silent cities." Grave markers reveal more than just names and dates -- if you know what to look for. Join this celebration of the diverse heritage of the people who all contributed to make this city what it is today. |
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Angels, Guardians, and Languishing Ladies ©The Victorians used symbolism and figural sculpture to convey the heavenly aspirations, occupations and characters of their loved ones. They borrowed freely from proceeding artistic eras to crate variations of ancient monuments and memorials depicting deep mourning or the jubilance of heavenly acceptance. This is an historical look at monument figures and types found in cemeteries from coast to coast. |
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Stranger, Stop and Cast An Eye: Epitaphs ©An epitaph is the final message left behind by those who pass before us. The message may be one of tribute, hope, admonition, instruction, ego, or even humor. Epitaphs can tell us more about people in poetic and endearing ways, but some can be more unusual -- even downright bizarre! Join us for a slide presentation to look at epitaphs left by the famous and infamous and the possible meanings behind them for people like Benjamin Franklin who compared himself to an old book or B.P. Roberts who proclaimed, "I told you I was sick!" |
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Safe Gravestone Rubbing Techniques & How to Read Fading Inscriptions ©Curious about how to do a gravestone rubbing? There are safe ways to make rubbings, as well as other non-invasive ways to capture the lovely images found on old memorials. We will learn about various methods that can be used without doing any damage to the fragile old stone markers. Learn from a nationally recognized expert how to interpret traditional gravestone designs found in Ohio. Knowing the language and picking up clues from epitaphs can reveal subtle details about the cemetery's permanent residents. Join The Cemetery Lady as she shares her extensive experience in how to appreciate cemetery art and heritage. |
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Stone Gardens: The Language of Flora and Fauna in the Cemetery ©Flowers, animals, and birds were used to convey very personal feelings, outward attributes, and spiritual aspirations by the Victorians. Some of the most poignant and whimsical funerary sculpture includes these natural images to tell a special story about those who have gone before. |
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All presentation programs are adaptable for 20 to 60 minute lectures or as 1-1/2 to 2 hour classes. |
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TOURS by the Cemetery Lady |
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How to Explore a Cemetery ©This informal walking tour is ideal for people who are drawn to the peaceful, natural setting of cemeteries. It is adaptable to virtually any cemetery because we explore it for clues to reveal the personalities, spiritual aspirations, professional and social affiliations, and cultural customs of the people buried there and of the community at large. Gravestone symbolism tells us a lot about our "permanent residents" -- if you know how to interpret it. Ever wondered how to identify the age of a gravestone by its shape and material? All of our cultural heritage can be found in a cemetery -- if you know what to look for. Preservation tips are also discussed. Time and weather permitting, we will have a gravestone rubbing demonstration and learn ways to decipher fading inscriptions. Group bookings are available. Length of tour: 2 hours. |
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Stones & Bones Tours ©Join The Cemetery Lady on a walking/motor coach tour to explore Cleveland's oldest cemeteries for a unique way to learn about our history. We examine traditional Western Reserve gravestone designs used by the early settlers, tributes to the brave soldiers who fought for our freedom, and sumptuous sculpture and architecture artfully carved to commemorate Cleveland citizens. Group bookings are available. Length of tour: 4 hours. |
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Additional Slide Lectures by Special Arrangement |
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A Flight of Souls Built in memory of Jeptha H. Wade, Lake View Cemetery's first president and prominent Cleveland businessman, the interior of the magnificent chapel was designed entirely by the Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company in 1900. |
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Angelic Sculpture and Symbolism ©Explore the historical meanings behind the Victorian views of angels and other symbols found in glorious statuary, mosaics, and stained glass in Lake View Cemetery. Learn more about the sculptures and the people inspired to create them. |
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If you would like to schedule a speaking engagement with the Cemetery Lady, Katie Karrick, email thecemeterylady@aol.com for more information. Include group, location, date and choice of topic in your email. |
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© 1994 Tomb With A View, The Cemetery Lady