Resting in Peace (Part One)...

I have mentioned that one of my hobbies is tramping around cemeteries, and in particular, seeking out graves of the famous.  Of course, most of my visits in recent years have been in the US, but whenever I go back across the pond, I do try to take in what I can.  Here is the first in a series of posts detailing some of the cemeteries and graves I have visited.

St. John's Parish Church, Upperthong, Yorkshire

Bill Owen MBE (1914-1999)
Best known to both British and American audiences for his role as "Compo" Simmonite in the BBC comedy series, Last of the Summer Wine.  The series was set in the Yorkshire town of Holmfirth, and although Owen was born - and died - in London, he wanted to be buried in the area he had grown to love (Upperthong is just a few minutes walk from Holmfirth town centre).

Kensal Green Cemetery, London

Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806-1859)

Brunel is perhaps the greatest engineer in British history, and in 2002, was placed second in a public poll to decide the 100 Greatest Britons.  Brunel's designs encompass all manner of things, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge (at the time of construction, the longest span of any bridge), the Great Western (at the time, the longest ship in the world), and Paddington (London) Railway Station.

St. Peter's Churchyard, Limpsfield, Surrey

Sir Thomas Beecham, Bt, CH (1879-1961)

One of the legendary British conductors and impresarios, Beecham was born into the family of pharmaceutical fame.  A great champion of the composer Frederick Delius (who is buried just a few feet away), Beecham was known for his wit.  Two of my personal favourites are :

"The English may not like music, but they absolutely love the noise it makes."

and when commenting on an unidentified soprano :

"Her singing reminds me of a cart coming downhill with the brake on."

Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, London

John Bunyan (1628-1688)

The Christian writer and preacher, John Bunyan is best remembered for "The Pilgrim's Progress", the most famous published Christian allegory.  His impact is indicated by his commemoration by several branches of the Christian church, including the Church of England, the Anglican Church of Australia, and the liturgical calendar of the United States Episcopal Church.