Cemeteries

Where does the writer of vampire novels (and a genealogist) go on her vacation? To visit the vampire grave of Rhode Island, of course!

Pilgrimage complete!

While researching odd and interesting places to visit in Rhode Island and Connecticut on roadsideamerica.com, I came across the vampire grave of Simon Whipple in Union Cemetery in North Smithfield, RI.

In memory of Simon Whipple, youngest son of Col. Dexter Aldrich & Margery his wife, who died on May 6, 1841, aged 27 years. Altho’ consumption’s vampire grasp had seized thy mortal frame, ……. mind …..

We’ll never know exactly how the epitaph ends at some point in the past, his stone was set in concrete? Why? Was it because the stone had been knocked over and had to be set again? Or was it perhaps because to keep something in the ground from getting out? We’ll never know …

Simon and his siblings … all died aged 27 years …. odd …

-Jennifer

Jennifer Geoghan, author of:

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If you’re a writer and you’re trying to come up with some good names for your characters, look no further than your local cemetery. Sound strange? Well, I suppose it is an unusual suggestion, but as genealogist and a writer I’ve spent a lot of time in cemeteries and love to come across a great name that’s gone out of fashion. I remember coming across the name Sophronia in my genealogical research some time back. The name stuck with me. I just like the ring of it. I liked it so much that I wrote the name into my first novel (The Purity of Blood Volume I) as the name of Daniel’s grandmother.

Another name I loved that I spotted in a cemetery was Theophilus. I mean how great is that name! It sounds very regal and very scholarly to me, with a twist of whimsy. You could go with Theo for short if you wanted. For me, I used it at the much hated middle name of Ben in my books. At least he hated his middle name, not that I cared, I’m the writer so it’s my show, Ben.

Here’s a few other unusual names: Huldah

Here’s Celestia: Whose full name is Celestia Amelia Slingerland Stillman. Wheh!

I’ll close this post out with a two for: Jerusha and Molbro!!

So remember to check out your local cemetery this spring when you’re in the mood for an afternoon stroll. It’s quiet and peaceful and chuck full of great names. Remember to bring a pad and pen!!

-Jennifer