This monument had me out of my car in a flash, camera at the ready. It’s so striking, but unfortunately because of it’s positioning it isn’t the easiest one to photograph. There is also a tree on the plot that tends to shade this magnificent couple, and again adds to the complicated task of getting a good shot. So forgive the photos- but definitely go see it.
Woodlawn Cemetery is in Tampa and like all larger cemeteries it includes other smaller ones within its gates, like Showman’s Rest, Beth Israel, and Centro Asturiano just to name a few. Basically you could spend the day here, and just for fun look at the map of this thing. It has over 24,000 burials and only 30% are photographed according to Find A Grave. I’ve been twice so far,but as it always happens when I start researching for blog posts I found out about the Marti/Colon Cemetery in Tampa, so I’ll be headed back over there soon to see that. Big mausoleum on the property? Yes, please.
Hiram was a doctor in Tampa (rumored to be the first one in the city) who was born in 1852 in Madison County, Georgia. His wife Emma is next to him and there is some speculation about their backs being turned to the city of Tampa, but one clever person pointed out that they are actually facing their children (of which there were many) who are buried in the plot in front of them. The couple looks like they’re talking at the end of a long day. He holds a book. She holds a fan. The large portrait on her grave is missing but his is still intact. They are remarkable and made of Italian marble.
Emma died 12 years before Hiram in 1908 and she was also from Georgia. She brought 8 children into the world, 3 of which died in infancy.
The photos of the couple on Find A Grave show them cleaner than they are now, but they’re still one of my favorite monuments to date. Restoring and cleaning marble is a costly and delicate process, and I’m sure it’s something that nobody wants to do in the Florida heat, and other than the dirt these statues are in wonderful condition.
One the way out of town I was stopped at a light and saw this, and was taken aback by all of the offerings this church managed to pack onto one sign. They definitely got their money’s worth and it looks like you can head to church on most nights during the week. That is one busy pastor.
I just started researching my family to build a tree. I found out last night Hiram and Emma Hampton are my great great grandparents. I can’t believe my dad didn’t know this. He was just as surprised as I was to find out.
That’s amazing! They have a very well documented history so you’ll have a great time researching them. As a family member it may give you the right to maintain those beautiful statues!They’re stunning. Thank you for reading, Shannon!
Hi Marnie,
Just stumbled across your blog because I wanted to show my friend a photo of my great -grandparent’s statues at Woodlawn haha, and it was really delightful to find this thoughtful post about them! I too was told the story of them “turning their backs on Tampa”, I’ll have to look in my family album and see what it says in there (the album I have was done by my grandfather Phil Hampton, one of Hiram’s sons) or ask around. Anyway, I love your blog—the subject matter RULES, and you treat everything with thought and delicacy. If you ever want any more info about the Hamptons let me know—my dad’s side of the family are very invested in their heritage, and have a lotttt of good info and great stories. Keep up the good work!
Best,
Laura
Laura, can I just tell you how much I love hearing things like this? I LOVE those statues, and I love it that there are descendants that still care about their story! I’m so glad you saw the post. If you’re local (in Florida) send me a message! I’d love to meet up sometime and hear some stories!