Cemetery shares its 'Animal Tales'

Lambs are among the symbolic animals used on monuments
in Sacramento's Historic City Cemetery.
(Photo: Courtesy Historic City Cemetery) 

From pet bears to ostrich farms, animals played big part in Sacramento's early history

Animals – wild or domestic – played a big part of life in early Sacramento. Discover some of the more interesting animal-related stories associated with Sacramento’s pioneers and 1800s residents during “Animal Tales,” a fun- and anecdote-filled walking tour of Sacramento’s Historic City Cemetery.

At 10 a.m. Saturday, March 2, this free tour will recall tales of pet bears, boas, parakeets and escaped monkeys as well as note the area’s famous horsemen, cattle ranchers, ostrich farmers, beekeepers and more. Also learn some of the animal symbolism used on cemetery monuments.

All ages are welcome; wear sensible shoes for the cemetery’s gravel paths.

Meet at the cemetery’s main gate, 1000 Broadway, Sacramento. Free street parking is available.

This tour is part of a year-long series, exploring Sacramento history. Upcoming topics include “Sacramento History for Kids” (April 6), “Sacramento, The Soul of the Railroad” (May 4), “Stonecutters, Sacramento’s First Artists” (May 18) and “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” (June 1).

Details: www.historicoldcitycemetery.org.

- Debbie Arrington