Within the wrought-iron and stone walls of American cemeteries—beneath the shade of oak trees and tombs’ stoic penumbras—you could say many people “rest in peace.” However, not so long ago, people of the still-breathing sort also gathered there to rest – and dine – in peace.
In the early 1800s, the park-like “rural” (or garden) cemetery began to replace the overcrowded and unhealthy old-school graveyards of the post-colonial era. At that time, America offered few recreational areas where a family might have a pleasant outing… or perhaps a nice picnic with their departed loved ones.
During the 19th century, especially in its later years, it was commonplace to have a snack or even a full meal in a cemetery. It wasn’t just apple-munching alongside the winding avenues of graveyards. Many people had full-blown family picnics in their local cemeteries – the closest thing at that time to a modern-day public park or botanical garden.
One of the reasons why eating in cemeteries become a “fad,” as some reporters called it, was because death was a familiar visitor for many families; in cemeteries, people could spend quality time and break bread with family and friends, both living and deceased.
Cool. My Dad is probably somewhere in the South Pacific depths by now (ash drift) and my Mom is planted in Massachusetts, so visiting is unlikely. But I like this tradition and could see doing it as a Day of the Dead memorial for all who’ve gone beyond.