The historic O. C. Simmonds cemetery in Pendleton is a dedicated Masonic Cemetery. The central turn-around area was designed as a floral display depicting the Order of the Eastern Star. We were asked by the cemetery, and The McCone family members, to create a living memorial space for a woman who was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, rather than recreating the floral display.

The materials for the living memorial were specifically chosen to not only represent the Mason heritage and the meaningful representation of the Eastern Star, but also to celebrate the woman the memorial honors. Stone was an obvious selection, but the color and texture of the stone was just as important. We were able to use 5 very different shades of natural stone materials to represent the five colors depicted in the Eastern Star, while using an exposed aggregate concrete material to surround the star and form the outermost rings of the symbol. A simplification of the symbols associated with the star into one word statements allows the visitor to quickly understand the values and beliefs of the Order and the Masons. The planting materials were specifically chosen to represent Patricia’s own love of gardening and plants her family will always remember her by. Curved seating benches surround the star, offering space for quite contemplation as well as larger memorial services and celebrations not only for the family but for all those visiting Acacia. Engraved into the coping edge of the longest bench is the motto “Fairest Among Thousands, Altogether Lovely” which not only represents the Order, but also the memory of Patricia Burd McCone.