April Fools: The Man who Died of Laughter and Other Famous People Not Buried at Laurel Hill

April Fools: The Man who Died of Laughter and Other

Famous People Not Buried at Laurel Hill

An estimated 75,000 permanent residents now inhabit historic Laurel Hill Cemetery. They include illustrious names synonymous with America herself, such as George Washington and his wife, Martha. A bit later in national history when the Civil War erupted, Robert E. Lee was known to citizens on both sides of the Mason Dixon; his name now graces a headstone in Laurel Hill. Fast forward to our contemporary culture; Indiana Jones and Harry Potter are household names. They are also names inscribed above earthy beds in Philadelphia’s city of the dead. Learn the stories of the famous and the infamous, the real and the figurative folks of past and present not buried at Laurel Hill in this April Fools’ Day walking tour. Shoes optional. Bring your sense of humor. But beware… In 1975, English bricklayer Alex Mitchell died after 25-minutes of continuous laughter during a TV comedy. His name can also be found at Laurel Hill.

This program will be co-presented by Laurel Hill Cemetery guides, Terri Greenberg and Jeff Wiernik. It will take place on Sunday, April 1 at 1:00pm, departing from Laurel Hill Cemetery’s Gatehouse entrance at 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132, and concluding with cookies and refreshments. Free parking is located in the lot across the street from the Gatehouse.

The cost is $12/person and $10/students or seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the door, or in advance by calling (215) 228-8200 or online at www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org.