A Familiar Tombstone "From Beyond"

H.P. Lovecraft was known to derive inspiration from many sources for his weird tales. He was also known to adore strolls through cemeteries, in Providence and abroad. So, it's no surprise that Lovecraft took more back with him than the chunk of a 17th century headstone he allegedly chiseled off one day. Observe the TILLINGHAST headstone above.

It seems the Tillinghast family stone at Swan Point Cemetery (where Lovecraft himself is buried today) is the direct inspiration for the mad scientist of "From Beyond." Crawford Tillinghast is a memorable name, for the weird nature of the machine he created to peer beyond the veil of this reality is unforgettable. It appears Lovecraft was struck by the excellent quality of this name, and duly incorporated it into the horrific antagonist of "From Beyond."

What other sturdy names out of Lovecraft would turn up in a walk through Swan Point Cemetery, or in any others that felt the footsteps of HPL? It's somewhat difficult to know, but it does suggest one thing: don't forget your camera in old New England graveyards.

-Grim Blogger