Gazette Of The United States

Utility of planting Willow Trees in Burying Grounds.

FOR many years past, the philosophers and physicians of Europe have borne a testimony against the interment of the dead in the centre of large cities. But since the discovery of the usefulness of trees in absorbing putrid air, and discharging it in a pure state, much less evil than formerly is to be apprehended from this practice. To derive and extend the utmost possible benefit from this discovery, would it not be an act of humanity in each of our religious societies, to surround their grave-yards with trees? They would afford a shade to a considerable part of our city, and add to its coolness and ornament in the summer. The weeping willow would accord most with the place. It puts forth its leaves early in the spring, and returns them late in the fall. Besides, Doctor Priestley has demonstrated, that it is the best and quickest corrector of impure air, of any tree that grows. Its rapid growth will moreover, in a few years, give us all the advantages we expect from it.