The city of Barre calls itself the “Granite Capital of the World,” and the Hope Cemetery here is a feast for the eyes. The granite you’ll see used to make these spectacular memorials is from the nearby Rock of Ages quarry. This beautiful cemetery in VT is not just a resting place, but a display of some of the most superb craftsmanship you’ll ever find. Let’s take a look at some of the ornate headstones at this magnificent place.

The Hope Cemetery has more than 10,000 beautifully crafted tombstones and memorials located in its 65-acre spot.
Flickr/Melvin Mason
It was established in 1895 and skilled artisans from around the world, especially Italy, flocked to Barre to become part of the booming granite industry.
Flickr/Melvin Mason
Interesting fact about many of the sculptors:
Flickr/Melvin Mason
Silicosis, a respiratory disease caused by granite dust, was common among the artisans and sculptors who were breathing it in every day, which led to an abnormally high death rate. In addition, the 1918-19 Spanish flu epidemic caused many additional deaths, adding to the need for tombstones.

Knowing that death was imminent and possibly around the corner, many sculptors designed their own tombstones to showcase their skills even after their death. It is estimated that at one time, 75 percent of the tombstones were designed by the occupants of the graves.
Other monuments you'll find were created to honor the deceased through their hobbies.
Flickr/Geoff Dude
Such as this gravestone of a 13-year-old soccer enthusiast.
wikipedia.org
Or this one which honors the life of a pilot.
Wikipedia.org

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You'll find intricate carving details like this one on a tombstone of a well driller.
Wikipedia.org
There are interesting sights to be seen abound, such as this man who's smoke manifests in the shape of a person.
Flickr/geoff dude
Or this touching memorial of a couple holding hands in bed.
Flickr/Melvin Mason
As you can see, the monuments are fascinatingly detailed.
Flickr/Melvin Mason
On a sunny day the lighting in the cemetery makes this a popular destination for photographers.
Flickr/Matt
Why not visit the Hope Cemetery to see these masterpieces for yourself?
Flickr/Melvin Mason
While you're in Barre, you should visit the quarry where the granite comes from!
Facebook/Rock of Ages Visitors Center
This site is not to be missed!

For more information on this popular tour, click here.

The Hope Cemetery is located at 262 E Montpelier Road in Barre.

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