About Melissa Banta
Consulting Curator, Historical Collections & ArchivesPosts
An Almost Perfect Circle: Halcyon Lake
Visitors never fail to marvel at the tranquil beauty of Halcyon Lake. Over time, major design and preservation efforts, inspired by changing aesthetic tastes and practical needs, have shaped and protected the distinct character of one of Mount Auburn’s most … Continue reading
Elegance and Beauty of Expression: The Early Stained-Glass Windows of Bigelow Chapel
When entering Bigelow Chapel, one’s eye is immediately drawn to the brilliancy and beauty of its two large stained-glass windows: the Chancel Window, in the north wall of the building above the altar, and the Rose Window, in the south … Continue reading
Mount Auburn, the Rural Cemetery Movement, and Frederick Law Olmsted
Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (1822 – 1903) was nine years old when Mount Auburn was founded in 1831. While he did not design the Cemetery, the enduring characteristics that made Mount Auburn a model for cemeteries and public parks … Continue reading
“A Most Beautiful and Commodious Building” Mount Auburn’s Story Chapel and Administration Building
The first thing you see when you pass through the entry gateway of Mount Auburn Cemetery is Story Chapel and the adjoining Administration Building. Since 1898, the old stone building has provided a setting for funeral and memorial services; a … Continue reading