Timothy Clark Smith
Timothy Clark Smith’s grave attracts tourists from all across New England due to its unique construction to provide an escape route for its inhabitant. Dr Smith suffered from “taphephobia” or a fear of being buried alive. In order to safeguard against this possibility, he had unique requests for his grave. It was built with a window connected to a six-foot concrete shaft that led down to Timothy’s face so loved ones could ensure he was well and truly dead. While condensation has made it difficult to see him, some claim they can still see the presence of his now skeletal face. Legend reports too that he was buried with a bell in one hand to call for help and a chisel to break out if he came back to life.
While Dr. Smith is now remembered for his unique interment, his life itself is worthy of noting as well. Smith spent a large part of his life in the Black Sea region, first as a surgeon and later as a diplomat in Odessa. Two historical maps of the region along with Smith and his family portraits are currently on display at the Sheldon Museum.