The mystery of the rose, a bottle and Poe

August 18, 2007 More Doubt
Poe Museum Curator Disputes Historian's Claim That He Began Grave Site Ritual of Roses, Cognac

By William Wan
Washington Post Staff Writer Saturday, August 18, 2007; B01

He sneaks into the cemetery every year at night in the dead of winter,the mysterious man in black, to pay his respects at the grave of Edgar Allan Poe. And in his wake, he never fails to leave three roses and a bottle of cognac.

For decades this mystery has drawn thousands to the famed poet's grave in the heart of Baltimore and spawned much speculation. Why the black garb? Why cognac? And just who is this man?
**************************************************************

To continue reading, click on the post title