02-10-14 Council Agenda & Packet

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United States Department of the Interior National Park Service / National Register of Historic Places Registration Form NPS Form 10 -900 OMB No. 1024 -0018 South Bend City Cemetery St. Joseph, Indiana Name of Property County and State South Bend City Cemetery typifies many of these Late Victorian stylistic ideas. Between 1870- 1900, many significant and sizeable markers and monuments were added to the landscape. South Bend was a growing and prosperous manufacturing center during this time, and large fortunes were both made and subsequently displayed, even in death. The social hierarchy of the community is evident in the monuments to status that abound. Intricate and imposing memorials mark the final resting places of wealthy and well known industrial barons including Birdsells, Olivers, Studebakers, Chapins, Andersons and others. Families also began purchasing large lots with many plots for family members. Often a large and impressive stone bore the family's name, and the entire lot might be surrounded by ornate coping, monogrammed markers at the corners, or fencing. Architectural details, fully articulated figures, and other sculpted objects adorn markers and monuments throughout. Examples of obelisks are prevalent. Many markers bear floral motifs reminiscent of Eastlake accents. Alternative materials such as colored granite and "white bronze" (zinc) became popular as examples of status. Other stylistic and design changes occurred as well including the use of symbolic motifs such as a willow tree denoting grief, lambs and empty cradles depicting the loss of a child, clasped hands forecasting a reunion in the afterlife, and pointed fingers directing the deceased towards heaven. Plantings also reflected a more reflective impression of death including rosemary for remembrance and other symbolic shrubs and flowers. Grave markers throughout, circa 1831 -1930, reflect changes in stone choices, iconography and symbolism. Formally carved markers, bark covered logs, and various shapes of various stones also boast Eastlake and Sullivanesque decorative elements. Each contributes to the overall landscape in aesthetically pleasing and sometimes unexpected ways. The logs and other markers depicting natural elements reflect the existing natural landscape while communicating information about those whom the markers memorialize. Still others-with their fine carving or large size are a testament to wealth. Unusual stone or material choices accomplish the same. Summary South Bend City Cemetery contains some of the most hallowed ground in South Bend, Indiana. Much can be gleaned about the development of South Bend, the accompanying social mores, economics, genealogy, epidemiology, and the changing cultural sentiments towards life and death as reflected in art, architecture and other monuments. In a 1901 writing in South Bend and the Men Who Have Made It, the City Cemetery is referred to as a "veritable God's Acre, and one of the most impressively interesting of all the interesting points of this city ". This writing is seemingly timeless as the statement stands true to present day. As a cemetery that is so intertwined both within the city and within South Bend's rich history, it remains an integral part of the community. Because of its longevity, it stands as a monument to South Bend, creating strong ties to the citizenry and memories of the community. Representing the city's involvement in government and war, it also links the great early families of South Bend, like the founders and Studebakers, keeping their influence an intact aspect of the history of the community. Also, the impact of the cemetery is not stagnant, and it continues to be a major part of city programs, such as Memorial or Veteran's day events. These activities make cemeteries an asset to the community that honors its past. Section 8 page 22