The Morris Chapel Find at Rosehill Cemetery, Illinois: Unveiling a Forgotten History

Located on Chicago's North Side lies one of America's most historic and sprawling cemeteries - Rosehill Cemetery. Founded in 1859, this expansive garden cemetery stretches over 350 acres (1.4 square kilometers), making it the largest burial ground within city limits. With its rich history dating back to the Civil War era, Rosehill has served as a final resting place for countless Chicagoans, including many notable figures who shaped the Windy City's identity.

Among these famous residents is Lulu Fellows, whose monument stands out not only due to her celebrity status but also because of its unique architectural design. The cemetery boasts numerous mausoleums and headstones that are both beautiful and eccentric in nature - testaments to Chicagoans' creative spirit even beyond the grave.

However, one lesser-known aspect of Rosehill's history involves a prominent figure who himself lies buried within these hallowed grounds: William W. Boyington, the architect behind several iconic Chicago landmarks including the Chicago Water Tower and Old University of Illinois (now known as the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign).

The entrance gate designed by Boyington in 1864 stands as an imposing structure made from Joliet-limestone - a stark contrast to its more modern counterparts. This magnificent gateway serves not only as a symbol of Rosehill's grandeur but also serves as a poignant reminder of the cemetery's rich history and architectural significance.

The U.S. National Register of Historic Places recognized this importance in 1975 when they listed both the Rosehill Cemetery Administration Building and Entry Gate under their auspices. This designation solidifies Boyington's contributions to American architecture while acknowledging Rosehill's status as a vital part of Chicago's cultural heritage.

Rosehill's origins date back even further, however - according to legend, it was named after an error made by City Clerk during the early days following the Civil War. The area had previously been known simply as 'Roe's Hill', named for nearby farmer Hiram Roe who refused to sell his land unless certain conditions were met.

One such condition ultimately led to Rosehill bearing its current moniker: in honor of Hiram Roe himself, rather than being named after a different geographical feature altogether. Today, visitors can still see remnants of this tumultuous past when exploring the expansive grounds that comprise one of America's most fascinating cemeteries - a testament not only to Chicagoans' tenacity but also their ability to find beauty even in death itself.

In conclusion, while many may view Rosehill Cemetery as nothing more than another forgotten plot of land on Chicago's North Side; those willing to dig deeper will discover an intricate tapestry woven from stories both grand and tragic - each one telling its own unique tale about life, loss, love & ultimately the indomitable human spirit that continues to endure long after we've gone.

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