22. Richard Mansill Monument
22. The monument that decorates the Mansill lot consists of a polished red granite sphere set on a pyramid supported by four pillars, probably representing the four pillars of the universe. Richard Mansill came here with his parents from Staffordshire, England at the age of 20.At first, he worked as a miner in Coaltown. Then, employing thrift and imagination, he became involved in myriad interests, including a lumber yard and coal mines of his own.
He was also interested in countless matters concerning the natural sciences and was author of many books about the origin and workings of the universe. Though his plan to create a museum to house his many interesting finds as well as his written work could not be realized before his death, he was able to publish considerable material, including an annual almanac, The Almanac of Planetary Meteorology, which was published and circulated regularly throughout the U.S. and England for five years before his death.
Mansill was known and respected throughout scientific circles. Mr. Mansill died in 1903 at the age of 74, leaving a son, Tom. His wife, Julia Trekle Mansill, had preceded him in death 40 years before. Burials on this lot are under the monument, which itself is unusual.
