Key West, located off the southernmost tip of Florida, is well known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and unique culture. One of the more unusual aspects of Key West is that the graves in many of the cemeteries are above ground rather than buried underground. This is quite different from most other places in the United States where underground burial is the norm.
History of Above Ground Burial in Key West
The practice of above ground burial in Key West dates back to the 1800s when the area was first being settled. The rocky and coral-based soil composition of the islands makes traditional underground digging and burial difficult. There is only a thin layer of topsoil above the hard limestone coral bedrock. Digging graves by hand was extremely laborious. Even with modern excavating equipment, the challenge remains.
In addition, the groundwater level in the islands is very high due to the ocean surrounding the land on all sides. Graves would quickly fill up with water if they were dug very deep. It was nearly impossible to keep underground graves from becoming waterlogged.
High Water Table
The high water table continues to be an issue today. The water table is the upper level of groundwater saturation. On Key West, the water table is only about two feet below the surface. This means any grave dug deeper than that would fill up with water. The shallower depth prevents proper underground burial.
Hurricanes
Frequent hurricanes passing through the area also disrupted underground burials. Storm surges would erode away shorelines and flood cemeteries, unearthing caskets and remains. Above ground tombs were more durable against severe weather.
Lack of Space
With limited land available on the small islands, above ground crypts and mausoleums allowed cemetery space to be used more efficiently. Bodies could be stored above ground vertically, opening up more room. This was important with Key West’s quickly growing population during the 1800s.
Types of Above Ground Burial
There are several different types of above ground graves and crypts found in Key West cemeteries:
Mausoleums
Free standing stone buildings called mausoleums are used to house bodies above ground. They contain multiple burial vaults stacked horizontally and vertically. They provide sheltered protection for remains. Mausoleums are often used for wealthy families.
Crypts
Stone crypt structures have burial vaults stacked on top of each other and are attached or part of a larger structure. These are a more affordable version of family mausoleums.
Mounds
Mounds or raised earthen graves have a layer of concrete sealed over the vault to keep water out. They provide an option similar to traditional underground burial.
Cement Enclosures
This involves placing the casket in an above ground sealed concrete box enclosure to protect it. The concrete box is then covered in a decorative stone façade.
Unique Graves in Key West
Some of the graves in Key West go beyond standard mausoleums and crypts. A couple of the more unique examples include:
The Tombstone Tree
Located in the Key West Cemetery, this livinig tree has an opening that houses a tombstone engraved with the names of a family. It offers a creative alternative to traditional headstones.
Graves with Humor
Reflecting the laidback culture of Key West, some graves have funny epitaphs written on them. Phrases like “I Told You I Was Sick” and “At Least I Know Where He’s Sleeping Tonight” showcase the quirky personalities.
Famous Residents Buried Above Ground
Many famous former Key West residents have their final resting places in the above ground graves. Some notable examples include:
John James Audubon
This renowned ornithologist and painter is buried in Key West Cemetery. His monument is a tall obelisk shaped tombstone.
Ernest Hemingway
The famous author lived and wrote in Key West for over 10 years. He is buried in a simple concrete plot in Key West Cemetery, although he originally wanted to be buried in the garden of his Key West home.
Tennessee Williams
The famous playwright moved to Key West in 1941 and wrote several well-known works there. He is buried in an oceanfront tomb in the Key West Cemetery.
Visiting Key West Cemeteries
Many visitors to Key West enjoy touring the historic cemeteries to see the unique grave markers and mausoleums. Some of the notable cemeteries include:
Key West Cemetery
Established in 1847, this is the largest and most visited cemetery. It has over 100,000 grave sites, many belonging to notable locals.
Truman Annex Memorial
A newer cemetery with above ground crypts located near the Truman Little White House. President Harry S. Truman spent 175 days of his presidency in Key West.
Saint Paul’s Churchyard Cemetery
Surrounds the oldest church in Key West, built in 1839. Features weathered headstones from the 1800s.
| Cemetery | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Key West Cemetery | 701 Passover Lane | – 100,000 grave sites – Ernest Hemingway’s grave |
| Truman Annex Memorial | Truman Ave & White Street | – Modern above ground crypts – Near Truman Little White House |
| Saint Paul’s Churchyard Cemetery | 401 Duval Street | – Surrounds the oldest church in Key West – Weathered 1800s headstones |
Conclusion
Above ground burial vaults have been used in Key West for over a century due to the challenges of the environment. Shallow soil, high groundwater, and hurricanes all prevented standard underground burial. Unique cemetery features like decorative mausoleums, tombstone trees, and funny epitaphs showcase the laid-back culture of the island. Visiting these cemeteries offers a glimpse into Key West history.