Día de los Muertos and the Cemeteries of the Keys
The Key West Library is holding its annual celebration and presentation for Día de los Muertos and the Cemeteries of the Keys at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 1.
Josh Marano, marine archaeologist with Biscayne, Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks, will provide a fascinating overview of the Dry Tortugas Cemetery.
The recent discovery of the archeological remains of a now submerged yellow fever hospital and military cemetery at Fort Jefferson has led to myriad interesting research questions and management challenges. Since its initial discovery, additional historical and archeological research has revealed considerable information on both burial practices and memorialization efforts for those who perished at the isolated fortification. Additionally, park staff have worked to document, transcribe, and interpret the stories of more than 200 men, women, and children who died at Fort Jefferson and to make meaningful connections with current generations, utilizing genealogical research to identify possible descendants. Management efforts have also focused on the development of partnerships with the U.S. Army to develop means to document, interpret, protect, and memorialize those who perished at Fort Jefferson.
Rosamaria Gonzalez, wildlife biologist at NAS Key West, will share the significance of the special celebration of Día de los Muertos, and its cultural meanings.
Participants are then encouraged to join a musical procession to the Key West Cemetery, where a presentation at the plot of artist Mario Sanchez will be provided by Nance Frank from the Old Island Restoration Foundation.
The library is at 700 Fleming St. The event is free. You do not have to have a Monroe County Public Library card to attend. The library has a small parking lot behind the building, with the entrance off Elizabeth Street. The library is also a stop on the free Duval Loop bus.
Photo of watercolor showing the cemetery at the Dry Tortugas, 1864. Florida Keys History Center.
Submerged gravestone at the Dry Tortugas. Provided by Dry Tortugas National Park.