Rex’s Grave at Green-Wood Cemetery: A Heartwarming Tribute to a Century-Old Canine
Amidst the historic and serene grounds of Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York City, where luminaries like Leonard Bernstein and Jean-Michel Basquiat rest, a small gravestone dedicated to a dog named Rex has become an unlikely but cherished site of affection. Despite being over a century old, Rex’s memorial continues to capture the hearts of visitors who leave thoughtful tributes, honoring the timeless bond between humans and their pets.
The Story of Rex
1. Rex’s Legacy
Rex, a loyal canine companion, was buried in Green-Wood Cemetery over 100 years ago.
His gravestone features a small statue of a dog, lying peacefully with its paws outstretched, a pose that invites connection.
2. A Rare Burial
While Green-Wood is the final resting place for four other dogs, Rex is believed to be the last buried there due to changing public attitudes against animal interment.
His grave, tucked beneath a tree, offers a tranquil and accessible space for visitors to stop and pay their respects.
A Tradition of Love: Sticks for Rex
1. The Stick Tradition
Visitors began placing sticks across the paws of Rex’s statue, creating a unique and touching tribute.
Sticks are often gathered from nearby trees, making it an organic and thoughtful gesture.
2. A Growing Phenomenon
Some visitors leave more personal items, such as pictures of their own deceased pets, with hopes that Rex will “look after” them.
These tributes, shared widely on social media, have turned Rex’s grave into a symbol of love and remembrance for pets worldwide.
Green-Wood Cemetery: A Historical Landmark
1. A National Treasure
Established in 1838, Green-Wood Cemetery spans 478 acres and is a National Historic Landmark.
Known for its picturesque landscape, historic monuments, and famous interments, it remains a popular site for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
2. Other Animal Graves
While Rex’s grave is the most famous, the cemetery also holds the graves of three other dogs.
A special 2016 tour showcased the graves of these canines, bringing their stories to public attention.
Public Reaction to Rex’s Grave
1. Emotional Connection
The tradition of leaving sticks for Rex reflects the enduring love people feel for their pets.
Many visitors see Rex as a symbol of the loyalty and companionship that animals bring into our lives.
2. Viral Fame
Images of Rex’s grave adorned with sticks have circulated online, drawing visitors from across the globe.
Social media posts about Rex evoke warm sentiments, inspiring others to share their own pet stories.
The Significance of Rex’s Memorial
1. Celebrating the Human-Animal Bond
Rex’s grave is a poignant reminder of the lasting impact animals have on our lives, even after they are gone.
It underscores the deep connection between humans and their pets, transcending time and place.
2. Honoring Forgotten Stories
While Green-Wood Cemetery is home to many famous figures, Rex’s story highlights the value of remembering less heralded lives.
His grave serves as a quiet testament to the everyday relationships that shape human existence.
Visiting Rex’s Grave
1. Where to Find It
Rex’s gravestone is located beneath a tree within Green-Wood Cemetery.
Cemetery maps or guided tours can help visitors locate this special site.
2. What to Bring
Visitors often bring sticks to leave on Rex’s statue, continuing the heartwarming tradition.
Personal mementos, such as photos of pets, are also welcomed as a way to connect with the memorial.
Rex’s Grave at Green-Wood Cemetery
Why Rex Matters
The story of Rex and his grave resonates because it reminds us of the universal bond between humans and animals. In a place filled with history, art, and memory, Rex’s simple, enduring presence stands out as a touching tribute to the loyalty, love, and joy that pets bring into our lives.
Whether visiting Green-Wood Cemetery to pay respects or learning about Rex’s story online, people are reminded of the profound connections we share with our animal companions—connections that last far beyond a single lifetime.
