Saving America's Graveyards visits Hill Crest

A group that will make 56 stops (events) in 48 states in 82 days visited Holly Springs Hill Crest Cemetery in connection with a class of visitors who wanted to learn more about the care and repair of monuments.

Alicia Williams of Virginia, Jeremy LaZelle, a videographer, and Jonathan Appell, of Connecticut, led the tour of about a dozen guests pointing out particular monuments and how they can be repaired and cleaned.

The group were going to help with cleaning some stones before moving on to their next stop. The stop Thursday, June 13, was event No. 14.

Williams said all the monuments are unique in their own way. But two monuments were of particular note because they were made by R.E. Launitz. The monuments are located to the left just inside the last entrance to Hill Crest Cemetery from South Center Street.

“His monuments are so beautiful,” William said. “He was a very talented man.” Launitz’s monuments are found in cemeteries on the East Coast, she said.

“It’s neat to see his work and it’s signed.” she said.

Phillip Knecht and Bobby Joe Mitchell, of Holly Springs, joined the group from the sidelines.