Cemetery Art Tour: The Architecture & Symbolism of Death & Mourning

Historic cemeteries are full of symbolism. Mount Vernon is no different. Join us for a comprehensive tour that helps us understand the various meanings behind the symbols.

This art and architecture-focused tour will examine in detail many of the fabulous sculptures that grace the cemetery’s blighted grounds. See angels emerging from the vines, discuss the symbolism behind the various urns and adornments topping MVC’s magnificent obelisks, and spend some time examining our incomparable Gardel Monument – considered to be the finest cemetery monument in the country! It’s art meets death on Decemeber 7th!

Tour will be lead by cemetery expert Mike Lewandowski. Mike has been giving cemetery tours since 2011. He love sharing stories that convey his knowledge of local history, our permanent residents, and cemetery symbolism.

This tour is sponsored and conducted by members of the Friends of Mount Vernon Cemetery and is part of MVC’s 2024 Fall Festival Tour Season.

Reminders:

• Please meet at MVC’s main gate. Located at the corner of Ridge and Lehigh Avenues.
• The tour will be going offroad. Regardless of weather – or costume – we strongly recommend wearing comfortable closed-toed shoes.
• It is essential to arrive on time. If you arrive late, once the gate is closed and locked, there is no coming back for you.
• MVC is in a court-appointed conservatorship. As such, all visitors will need to sign an access waiver. Paperwork will be provided to you upon arrival.
• All visitors are required to follow all rules and guidelines set forth by the cemetery’s conservators and by the Friends of Mount Vernon Cemetery. Failure to adhere to these rules will result in immediate expulsion from the grounds without refund, and you will be banned from participating in future MVC public events.