We pay homage to our dead by visiting the plots of land where their bodies are interred and gazing upon the headstones that commemorate their lives. It is especially surreal to visit the grave of a public figure and think that a person who influenced such a large part of the population is in a physical sense, right there, even though they are in reality so far away. Here are ten famous graves that you can visit in the state of Pennsylvania.
1. Nick Adams
The famous actor and screenwriter who passed away in 1968 is buried in Berwick.
2. Jean Stapleton
Best known for her role as Edith Bunker on the show All in the Family, Jean Stapleton died at the age of 90 in NYC in 2013. The lights on Broadway were dimmed for a minute in honor of her life and career.
3. Andy Warhol
The famous American artist was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and he is also buried there.
4. Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin is one of Pennsylvania's most revered historical figures, so it makes sense that you can visit his grave which is located in Philadelphia.
5. Jim Thorpe
You may recognize the name Jim Thorpe from the town, the person was a famous athlete in the early 20th century. He won Olympic medals, played professional football, baseball, and basketball. He was also the first president of the NFL. He is buried in... you guessed it, Jim Thorpe. Strangely enough he never even set foot there during his lifetime.
6. James Buchanan
The 15th president of the United States is buried in Woodward Hill Cemetery in Lancaster.
7. Betsy Ross
The famous sewer of the American flag, Betsy Ross is buried in Mt. Mariah cemetery in Philadelphia. Contrary to popular belief, no actual record exists that she created the first American flag. She was, however, at the very least, a maker of American flags, and a cool lady, so we'll let her keep the crown.
8. Commodore John Barry
A building at my high school was named after John Barry. Oh, to live a successful life and be commemorated with a cafeteria full of carbuncular kids. Really, though, the Father of the American Navy is buried in Philadelphia, though there are also memorials dedicated to him in Washington, D.C. and Ireland.
9. Jim Croce
The famous Pennsylvanian singer died in a plane crash in 1973. He is buried in Frazer, which is outside of Philadelphia.
10. Zane Grey
If you've ever enjoyed reading or watching a Western, you have Zane Grey to thank. He was one of the first and most influential writers of the genre, as well as one of the first millionaire American authors. He is buried in Lackawaxen.
Do you know of any others? Share in the comments below.
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