Lake View Cemetery - Cleveland Ohio

Before he left for New York, John D. Rockefeller was one of Cleveland's favorite sons. The "richest man in the world" at the turn of the 20th century began his business career in Cleveland and made his fortune by founding the Standard Oil Company, based in the city. Rockefeller donated much to the city's cultural institutions, including the land for Rockefeller Park.

When Rockefeller died in 1937 at the age of 98, he wished to be buried at Lake View Cemetery in the city he once called home. A 70-foot obelisk marks his grave. The structure, the tallest in the cemetery, was created by sculptor Joseph Carabelli.

Visitors to the gravesite often place dimes at the base of the stone, perhaps hoping that their money will increase as Rockefeller's did.

^{(last updated 5-12-08)}