Of all the famous people that have called Mississippi home, William Faulkner has got to be one of the most legendary. A literary legacy, he’s consistently referred to as one of the “most influential writers of the 20th century.” Aside from his incredible talent, Faulkner is known for something else – the immense amount of love he had for his home state. So it only makes sense that he be buried in Mississippi, and his final resting place is tucked away in a little cemetery in Oxford. Take a look:
Home to great shops and eateries, Oxford’s Town Square is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. But just a few blocks from the Square, there’s another Oxford must visit.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
Nestled in the rolling hills of a quiet neighborhood, you’ll find Oxford Memorial Cemetery. It’s adjacent to St. Peter’s Cemetery.
Natalie Maynor/Wikimedia
There’s nothing dividing the two cemeteries, so it’s a common misconception that William Faulkner is buried in St. Peter’s when actually, his grave is in Oxford Memorial Cemetery.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
Not hard to find, his grave is situated just “20 paces” from this commemorative marker.
Natalie Maynor/Flickr
At first glance, it may appear that Faulkner’s grave has been disrespected with litter, but that’s not the case.
Araceli/FourSquare
For years, it’s been a tradition for those visiting the grave site to leave bottles of liquor, especially bourbon, as a tribute to the author.
Carmen K. Sisson/Cloudybright
In fact, it’s not uncommon for visitors to share a quick shot with the legendary author, even pouring a bit out for him.
Morgan K./Foursquare
Most of Faulkner’s family is buried in the cemetery.
Carmen K. Sisson/Cloudybright
However, you’ll notice a slight difference in the spelling of their last name, and that’s because William Faulkner added the “u” to the family name, as he thought it seemed more distinguished.
John Padgett/Flickr
Ready to visit the grave of William Faulkner? Oxford Memorial Cemetery is located at the corner of Jefferson Ave. and North 16th St. in Oxford.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
Natalie Maynor/Wikimedia
Natalie Maynor/Flickr
Araceli/FourSquare
Carmen K. Sisson/Cloudybright
Morgan K./Foursquare
John Padgett/Flickr
So, did you know this cemetery was William Faulkner’s final resting place? Ever visited? Tell us in the comments section.
If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out “The Most Chilling Graveyard In Mississippi Is Not For The Faint Of Heart.“
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