I was born and raised in Muncie, Indiana, birthplace of the Ball jar. Muncie was a bustling, industrialized city at the turn of the century (1900). It was full of beautiful architectural homes and businesses. But, I had always dreamed of moving down south. My favorite motion picture was "Gone with the Wind". I even named both of my children after an actress and character in the film (Ashly and Olivia).
When I came to South Carolina in the summer of 94, I was amazed by how big and green the trees were. The kudzu, azaleas, and dogwoods took my breath away. Instantly, I knew I was a goner, that I was here to stay.
I moved into an old plantation home in a small town called, "York". Across the street was Rosewood Cemetery. I fell in love and have been a taphophile ever since. That's a very unattractive word and I don't like to be called that. I prefer being called a "Tombstone Tourist."