Harriet Scott Memorial Pavilion
Written by Arno Sandoval, Architect, KAI Design & Build
How does one design a structure to commemorate a life that was so inspiring? How does one honor the person and the place of their burial? The first step in designing this memorial was delving in to the rich history of Harriet Scott and of Greenwood Cemetery. Many notable St. Louisans are buried at Greenwood cemetery with Harriet Scott. So with that in mind, designing a monument that not only celebrated Harriet Scott’s life, but also recognized the history of this underappreciated cemetery became the challenge.
The design reflects the tension that Dred and Harriet Scott went through in order to gain their freedom. The events of their lives was a ray of hope for the change desired by some in this country but would unfortunately spark anger in others bringing the country to Civil War almost tearing it apart. In the end, the country would come together, reconcile its differences and open up the freedom that the Scott’s struggled to receive to many. Similar to this, we see a parallelism with Greenwood Cemetery. The cemetery found itself in disarray for many years, almost forgotten. Through the help and dedication of faithful citizens, this cemetery has been made meaningful to all and not just those who may come to mourn the lost. Upon entering through a narrow opening, the structure brings a feeling of collapsing in on its visitors inside just as the tensions mentioned previously brought the same feeling upon those in that time. But, as one walks through, the structure begins to open up like a flower reflecting the beauty of the purpose of the events of Dred and Harriet and the reconciliation this country went through. The new breath of life Greenwood Cemetery received is captured as well.
The beams convey many thoughts of that time period as well. The tension of the time also had rays of hope breaking through the dark and helpless feelings of those days. The beams are framed together and spaced in such a manner as to let rays of light, rays of hope, hit these beams, piercing the structure creating a play on light as one walks through its interior. Coupled with the sense of collapse, these two experiences mark the duality of the time. The beams also create a place for plaques to be hung commemorating the people buried at Greenwood cemetery, shining a light on those graves revealed after years of being unknown. The pavilion provides a visual and emotional experience for people to encounter as they walk through this historical timeline conveyed in a single structure.
On the exterior, another piece of history was added to this structure. The patio in the front is surrounded by posts. Up until the turn of the last century horses were used to move caskets for burial at the cemetery and a barn that stabled these horses was located right were the structure is located today. To recognize this piece of history, a patio lined with hitching posts was added in recognition of the horses, barn and activities that were once part of Greenwood Cemetery. The hitching posts will also be used to hold up a very light and airy tensile roof structure to shelter people from the elements while they visit.
Each detail is meant to be experienced, to inspire, and to bring history alive again for the visitor and to bring honor to each part.