Grave with a Staircase

Natchez, Mississippi

Florence Irene Ford was a little girl who was afraid of storms. Whenever one arrived, she would run to her mother for comfort. Then in 1871, age 10, she died of yellow fever.

Florence's father had some money, so to comfort his wife he ordered a unique, custom grave in the city cemetery in Natchez.

Florence's coffin had a window cut into its side, and, when she was buried, a short flight of stairs was dug into the earth, covered with hinged metal doors. Whenever a storm would arrive, Florence's mom would have the doors opened, walk down the stairs, and reassure the dead girl through the coffin window.

Florence's mom died in 1892. Florence remained visitable for another 60 years, until a concrete-covered brick wall was built between the staircase and her coffin. But the grave with its staircase is still there, and the doors are left open.

Florence now has many visitors, in all weather, and they often leave trinkets and toys on the stairs.