Wacky Wednesday: Edgar Allan Poe Gravesite

November 10th, 2010 by WLOY Staff

Author Edgar Allan Poe is highly revered in literature, the nation, and particularly his hometown of Baltimore. In fact, so revered that his gravesite attracts many on a typical drive through the city.

Poe was originally buried in 1849 in an unmarked grave. Today, that is far from the case. The marble monument is both unmistakable and unavoidable. The granite base itself measures 6 feet on each side. A bust of Poe sits atop the base, inscribed with the dates 1809 and 1849 and Poe’s name along the bottom.

The gravesite has always attracted attention, but it also receives annual attention. A man known as the Poe Toaster has stopped by the grave every year since 1949 to leave behind a partial bottle of cognac and three roses. The meaning for these particular items is unclear, but no attempt is ever made to hinder such homage.

So what are you waiting for? Hasn’t Poe caught your attention through at least one of his short stories? Pay your respect to the great Baltimorean… and if you’re completely inspired be sure to stop by his house and museum.

Edgar Allan Poe’s Gravesite is located at:
Westminster Burying Ground
519 W Fayette Street
Baltimore, MD

For more information, visit:
http://www.eapoe.org/balt/poegrave.htm