In a remarkable endeavor to revitalize the ambiance of Mt. Hope Cemetery, 75-year-old Bill Whitney, affectionately known as the ‘Daffodil Man,’ has led a dedicated team of volunteers in the planting of over 30,000 daffodil bulbs. Situated amidst the tranquil landscape of the cemetery, these vibrant yellow blooms have transformed the surroundings, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Whitney, a seasoned landscape architect, embarked on the ambitious project in 2019 with humble tools—a wheelbarrow, grubhoe, and spade. His initial focus was on restoring the historical integrity of the landscape, particularly targeting an area known as a kettle, characterized by its distinctive, sharply defined contours reminiscent of 1840s design.
The project, aptly named the Daffodil Project, quickly gained momentum as more volunteers joined Whitney’s cause. What began as a solitary endeavor evolved into a collaborative effort to enhance the cemetery’s aesthetic appeal and preserve its heritage. Volunteers, including students from Edison Tech High School, dedicated hours to tasks ranging from repairing stairs and walkways to restoring monuments and statues.
Reflecting on the project’s inception, Whitney reminisced with a chuckle about toiling away in the kettle before attracting attention. As the project garnered recognition, Whitney’s vision expanded, with the inclusion of diverse community members eager to contribute to the restoration efforts.
Teacher Chris McCoy expressed admiration for the initiative, noting its transformative impact on the cemetery’s ambiance. He emphasized the significance of revitalizing spaces like Mt. Hope, which, despite community appreciation, often require additional attention and care.
The first batch of daffodils was planted two years ago, with their vibrant blooms now adorning the cemetery’s landscape, totaling an impressive 33,000 flowers. Whitney estimates the actual count to be closer to 40,000 when factoring in natural propagation through pollination.
When queried about his choice of daffodils, Whitney expressed fondness for the resilient flowers, which began blooming as early as the second week of February despite adverse weather conditions. Their enduring beauty serves as a testament to nature’s resilience and adds a touch of vibrancy to the serene surroundings of the cemetery.
Looking to the future, Whitney revealed his intention to make the kettle his final resting place alongside his husband, underscoring the personal significance of the project. Their monument, nestled amid the daffodils, bears a poignant inscription borrowed from Robert Frost’s poetry: “Nothing gold can stay,” a poignant reminder of life’s fleeting nature and the enduring legacy of beauty and community spirit cultivated within Mt. Hope Cemetery.