Historic Cemeteries Of The USA

Everyone who lives in or around Iowa City or attended the University of Iowa knows about the Black Angel. Stories of death, murder, infidelity and mystery have surrounded her for nearly 100 years.

I first heard the Black Angel legends in 1986, just after I transfered to U of I. I was interested, of course, but lack of transportation kept me from visiting her until I went to the cemetery for a photo shoot with a local artist. I felt no fear when I saw her, only a sense of loss and sadness.

She was unusual in her stance, with her wings coming forward over her arms and her shrouded face. Her expression was very sad. She was looking down over a monument next to her, in the likeness of a tree stump. Its inscription, translated from Czech read:

"Like a bud just opening/commenced my life to be/but death came without mercy/without pity/The Lord had sent for me/I was not granted time to bid adieu/Do not weep for me dear brother/I am at peace in my cool grave."

Missing finger tips and half burnt candles at her feet told of vandals who had disturbed her vigil.

Well, the artist took the photos, and off we went, without incident. I researched her story, and discovered she was sculpted by Mario Joseph Korbel, a Bohemian artist.

The true history of the Black Angel has been known for some time. Even with all the facts that dispel the mysteries surrounding her, I'm still amazed at the stories people tell, and how they evolve. People will believe whatever they want, despite the truth.