"RIP" Sundown Traditional Geocache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(micro)
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The placement of roadside memorials by grieving families dates back
hundreds of years. The custom has spread far beyond its well-known
popularity. The memorials are found today in Ireland and in
Australia. Whether a simple wooden cross or an elaborate roadside
shrine with balloons, flowers, photos and mementos, each tells its
builder's sad story. Anthropologists trace the history of roadside
memorials – variously known as crucitas (little crosses) or
descansos (resting places) – to medieval Spain, where they were
used to mark the sites of violent deaths. Research also traces the
practice and the term descanso to the ancient habit of marking the
spot where funeral processions rested on their way to holy ground.
While the symbol of choice for roadside memorials remains the
cross, the practice of erecting them isn't strictly religious. As
one scholar noted, the cross isn't just a Christian symbol. It also
represents death. In some states, roadside memorials have caused
controversy. Some property owners don't want them near their
businesses. Some people say that permitting the crosses on public
rights-of-way is tantamount to a state sanction of religion. Since
the mid-1980s, the Texas Department of Transportation has had
written guidelines for the placement of memorials along state
roadways. Texas officials say their interest in the memorials is
strictly secular. "We view them as safe-driving reminders," said
Richard Kirby, former director of maintenance operations with the
department. The Texas guidelines say roadside memorials should be
constructed and situated so as not to present a hazard to passing
motorists. Texas in 2005 had 1,569 Alcohol related traffic deaths.
Not a good deal. This little memorial is just a reminder Don't
Drink and Drive. The cache is a small nalgene container with a log
only. Please bring your own pen. You will also need a means to
retrieve the log like tweezers.
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