My entire family is originally from New London. And now I have many of my relatives buried there in various cemeteries. Upon visiting the Gardner’s cemetery a month ago, I was surprised to see it had not been mowed in a long time. My assumption was someone would get to it shortly.

However, when returning later I was shocked to see the continued poor condition of the graveyard. I was told by an elderly gentleman walking his dog to be careful, that there were signs of a coyote being there. I slowly entered, and there he was! A very big coyote who just stood up behind a headstone and stared me down. I just closed my car window and continued to drive through, then slowly and carefully left, but not before I watched him walk slowly over to the side of the fence enclosure then lay down, keeping an eye on me leaving.

I am concerned for anyone visiting the cemetery with young children or a pet. I believe someone should be in charge of caring for this historic property that is in a lovely neighborhood. I've been going there a few times a year for the last 30 years and would be willing to help arrange a committee to care for it if the city is not willing or able to.

Patricia Harris Stock

Cromwell