Famous Graves - Col. Harland Sanders

As someone with a deep fascination for history and the stories behind the people who shaped our world, I've decided to embark on a new project for this blog: highlighting famous and notable graves of interest. From time to time, I'll be sharing the stories of those who have left their mark on history, and exploring their final resting places. My hope is to offer a unique perspective on their lives and legacies, and to provide a tranquil space for reflection. The first person I'll be featuring is a true culinary icon, Colonel Harland Sanders.

​Most are familiar with the fast food icon and the face of finger lickin chicken. Colonel Harland Sanders legacy extends far beyond the millions of fried chicken pieces sold worldwide.

While his entrepreneurial spirit and secret recipe are well-known, the final resting place of this remarkable man offers a more intimate glimpse into his life.

​Born in Indiana in 1890, Harland Sanders' life was marked by hardship and resilience. He worked various jobs, from steamboat pilot to railway fireman, before finding his true calling in the culinary world. It wasn't until the 60s that his "Kentucky Fried Chicken" began to gain widespread popularity. The rest, as they say, is history. Colonel Sanders' image, with his white suit and goatee, became synonymous with his brand, a symbol of Southern hospitality and delicious fried chicken.

​While his business thrived in the United States, Colonel Sanders called Canada home, spending his later years living in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. He passed away in 1980 at the age of 90. In accordance with his wishes, he was buried in his beloved Kentucky, in the Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville. This tranquil and historic cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures, allowing Colonel Sanders to indeed rest alongside other "greats" of their time.

​My family had the opportunity to visit Cave Hill Cemetery a couple of years ago, and paying our respects at Colonel Sanders' grave was a surprisingly moving experience.

The gravesite is marked by a dignified stone, bearing his name and years of life. A life-sized bronze sculpture of the Colonel stands beside it, forever greeting visitors with a welcoming smile and his iconic cane. The sculpture captures his distinctive appearance perfectly, a testament to his enduring image.

The atmosphere surrounding the grave was serene and respectful. Despite the fame and global reach of KFC, the site felt personal and offered a quiet moment to reflect on the man behind the brand. Seeing the simple yet elegant memorial, nestled amongst the trees and other historical markers, provided a different perspective on Colonel Sanders – not just as a marketing figure, but as a real person with a life story that ultimately led him to this peaceful spot. It was a poignant reminder that even the most globally recognized figures have their own personal histories and final resting places. Our visit left us with a deeper appreciation for the man who, even in his final years, remained dedicated to the quality and taste of his famous fried chicken.

Angie Moore

Eternal Care Stone Services