NGS 2025 Louisville: Memorial Day Ceremony at Cave Hill National Cemetery

             Monday, May 26, 2025

 

Cave Hill Cemetery

A post-conference activity for a modest $40.00 was an excursion to Cave Hill Cemetery & Arboretum, “one of the most historically rich and beautiful landmarks in the region. Upon arrival, attendees will be invited to explore the cemetery’s lush, tranquil landscapes at their own pace. The 296-acre grounds feature stunning gardens, towering trees, and iconic monuments, making it not only a historic burial site but also an urban arboretum with over 500 species of trees. Following the self-guided exploration, we will gather for a respectful Memorial Day ceremony at the National Cemetery section. This poignant ceremony will honor and remember the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces, offering attendees a moment of reflection and tribute.” From the NGS description.

 

Our small groups set out to explore the vast and breathtaking cemetery. In my group were my South Carolina friend Cheri Hudson Passey, two representatives from the NGS—Susan Yockey and Andre Kearns—and two other ladies. Our mission was to visit Muhammad Ali’s memorial, with a secondary goal of seeing Colonel Sanders' resting place, though time ultimately didn’t allow for it. Along the way, we strolled under towering, magnificent trees, admiring an array of stunning headstones, grand monuments, and towering obelisks.

Muhammad Ali's Memorial

 

After a few missteps—thanks to Google Maps leading us astray—we finally reached Ali’s monument with the help of a friendly cemetery employee who rescued us in an electric golf cart. After taking a group photo, we headed back to the rendezvous point for the Memorial Day service. To our surprise, the event was far larger than we had anticipated, with attendees including members of the VFW, state leaders, and even Senator Mitch McConnell. Who would’ve thought?

Video link to a newscast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9_lu2SLelw

And here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbYBxSMo7Wg

 

PICTURES

 

Kate Smith of NGS

After I returned to the Galt House Hotel, I had a quick bite to eat, then toured the riverfront, where I unexpectedly met up with Cheri Hudson Passey. We spent the next couple of hours walking around and hanging out in the hotel lobby, where all of a sudden, David McCorkle, President of the North Carolina Genealogical Society, joined us. After a while of chit-chatting, I said my goodbyes and returned to my room to prepare for an early flight the next morning to San Diego. What a great day and great conference!