New Jersey

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from various cemeteries around New Jersey

Even when old or weatherworn, the craftsmanship shows through in some monuments...I often reflect on just what exactly was trying to be captured.

This was the most unusual instance of a homemade marker that I have run into.

I'm not sure if it was temporary while they waited for the permanent one or not but it was unique.

A handmade sign complete with picture adorned the grave and along side it...a tiny tray table with water and coffee.

Children's toys are often a somber sight but there was just something about that bunny...it was almost as if mocking me.

This particular Benz is famous in New Jersey, it marks the grave of Ray Tse.

There are plenty of stories circulating about what exactly happened to Ray and why there is a full size impeccably detailed stone Mercedes atop his grave. The story I have heard most often is this:

Ray was a senior in high school and approaching his 17th birthday. He was an excellent student, well behaved and had very wealthy parents.

He wanted a Mercedes Benz (like the one above) for his birthday. His parents told him that if he got accepted into an Ivy League College he would have it.

Ray went out with some friends on his birthday to celebrate and was involved in a car crash, where he lost his life.

The next day, his acceptance letter arrived.

That's the story I've heard most often but there are plenty of variations, I have no idea if any of it holds any truth.

Nonetheless...Ray did get a Mercedes and it is quite a sight to see!

These are just a few of the MANY pictures I have from this cemetery in Westfield. It is a very small cemetery and in terrible disarray but by favorite.

I can't even guess how many hours I've spent there.

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