I recently enjoyed a sunny visit to the fine city of Portland. Unfortunately, the Eastern Cemetery is in disrepair. What could be a green garden of contemplation is overgrown. What could be a celebration of Portland’s history is neglected. 

Historic cemeteries draw tourists in many cities. Further, green space is healthy for residents as Portland develops. The Eastern Cemetery can be a gorgeous adjunct to Portland’s many charms, but instead the stones are broken, the trees are ragged and the fences are falling.

The cemetery has existed since 1668 and deserves to be maintained out of respect for the interred, its history and the pleasure it can bring to visitors today. 

Given all this, I hope Portland will support the Eastern Cemetery and its nonprofit, Spirits Alive. Let’s make that public space inviting and informative for the 21st-century visitor. 

Whitney McCarthy
Belfast