Slark and Letchford Tombs

Both of these tombs, constructed in 1868, are classified under the broad umbrella of revival styles of architecture, with the Slark mausoleum leaning toward Classical Revival and the Letchford more in keeping with Gothic Revival forms. It looks like some giant stepped on the Letchford tomb and all that remains above ground is its steepled top. The Letchford mausoleum is reminiscent of the early Gothic Revival period that is also referred to as Medieval Revival. This style of architecture was popular in the mid nineteenth century and preceded the more exuberant Victorian Gothic styles.

The tombs were probably designed by Theodore Brune and erected by George Stroud. The styling is indicative of Brune’s work and both men were active in the funerary arts when these two mausoleums were constructed. Both Robert Slark (d. 1868), who was in the hardware business, and the W.H. Letchford family (the Letchford tomb contains the remains of Sarah Augusta Slark, d. 1868, wife of W.H. Letchford) were wealthy New Orleanians.

Cypress Grove Cemetery, better known as the Fireman’s Cemetery, was founded in 1840 by the Fireman’s Charitable and Benevolent Association.
Text and photo © Douglas Keister Visit Doug’s Author Page

[address cemetery=”Cypress Grove Cemetery” street=”124 City Park Avenue” city=”New Orleans” state=”Louisiana” zip=”70119″]