An 8-ounce Hadacol bottle was discovered during routine maintenance at Glenwood Cemetery, representing a remarkable mid-century American marketing craze. Produced from 1943 to the mid-1950s, Hadacol was created by Louisiana Senator Dudley LeBlanc, who combined elements from his earlier company, Happy Day Company. He humorously noted, "Well, I hadda call it something!" Marketed as a "dietary supplement," Hadacol gained notoriety across the South, thanks to its 12% alcohol content (24-proof), which appealed to those in dry counties. LeBlanc also launched the "Hadacol Caravan," a star-studded traveling show featuring artists like Hank Williams and Judy Garland, with admission costing just two Hadacol box tops. The catchy song "The Hadacol Boogie" helped boost sales to tens of millions of dollars. Although the craze was short-lived, this weathered bottle stands as a fascinating reminder of mid-century health trends and pop culture in 20th-century Houston.
#GlenwoodCemetery #TexasHistory #Hadacol #VintageArtifacts #Houston
Bibliography: LeBlanc, Dudley Joseph, Sr. Captain Hadacol 2. Lafayette, LA: LeBlanc Corporation, ca. 1951. Internet Archive, https://archive.org/details/Captain_Hadacol_2_circa_1951/page/n17/mode/2up.
Zinnias are blooming all across the grounds, adding vibrant pops of color at every turn. 🌸 Zinnias symbolize endurance, lasting affection, and the remembrance of absent friends, making them a meaningful reminder of the beauty found in both memory and the present moment.🤍
#glenwoodcemetery #houston #blooms #gardencemetery
Born in Houston in 1843 to Swiss immigrant parents, George Hermann became one of the city's most influential businessmen and philanthropists. After building his fortune in real estate and transportation, he dedicated his life to giving back to the community that helped shape him.
When Hermann passed away in 1914, he left the majority of his estate to the City of Houston with the vision of improving the lives of future generations. His remarkable generosity helped establish Hermann Park and supported the growth of what is now Memorial Hermann Health System, creating a legacy that continues to serve Houstonians more than a century later.
George Hermann is laid to rest at Glenwood Cemetery, where his enduring commitment to Houston remains an important part of the city's history.🕊️
#GlenwoodCemetery #GeorgeHermann #HoustonHistory #HistoricHouston #Houston
In the late 1800s, above-ground mausoleums became popular in American cemeteries, but Glenwood Cemetery's board was dedicated to preserving its serene open hills and beautiful landscape. � Over the years, Glenwood turned down several proposals for community mausoleums, including a tempting $500,000 offer in 1938, as they prioritized their commitment to non-profit values. � In April 1950, a new proposal emerged from the National Mausoleum Sales Co., Inc., in partnership with a Houston construction company. They suggested a grand 5,000-crypt complex, starting with 400 air-conditioned crypts, alongside a chapel and office space, offering Glenwood $687,500 in cash plus ownership of the chapel. � Despite this enticing offer and the backing of a reputable firm, Glenwood chose to uphold its focus on traditional ground burials and the beauty of its natural surroundings. 🌿🍃 �
Swipe to view the original 1950 proposal document and some mausoleums at Glenwood! �
#GlenwoodCemetery #HoustonHistory #Architecture #Mausoleums #FuneraryArt #CemeteryHistory #HTX #ArchivalFinds
The Angel of Grief has long been a symbol of love, loss, and remembrance.
On Grief Awareness Day, we honor those carrying the weight of loss and recognize that every grief journey is unique. May today be a reminder to hold space for one another, cherish the memories of those we love, and find comfort in moments of reflection.
#glenwoodcemetery #grief #griefawarenessday #houston #houstonhistory #angelofgrief #gardencemetery #cemetery
The historic gates and their original brickwork are among Glenwood's most recognizable features, offering visitors a glimpse into the cemetery's rich history before they even step through the entrance.
By joining the Glenwood Circle, you help support Glenwood's mission through educational programs, preservation initiatives, and the continued care of this historic landscape. Members also enjoy exclusive experiences throughout the year, including our upcoming members-only event this August.🐝💛
Learn more about becoming a Glenwood Circle member through the link in our bio.✨
#glenwoodcemetery #glenwoodcircle #houston #historichouston #houstonhistory #preservation #gardencemetery
As our Lead Horticulturalist was leaving for the day, he heard distressed chirping and came across a young hawk in need of help.
The fledgling was covered in mites and appeared to be ill, so the Glenwood team contacted the Houston SPCA Wildlife Center. The young hawk is now in their care, where it can receive the treatment and rehabilitation it needs.
We're grateful for the opportunity to help protect the wildlife that calls Glenwood home.🦅💚
@houstonspcaswildlifecenter
#GlenwoodCemetery #HoustonWildlife #WildlifeRescue #HoustonSPCA #Nature #Conservation #Houston #Wildlife
Thoughtfully designed and adaptable for a variety of occasions, the Gathering Space at Glenwood provides a welcoming venue for meetings, lectures, receptions, luncheons, and more.
Swipe through to see a selection of previous room setups.
For rental information or to schedule a tour, contact us at 713-864-7886.
#GlenwoodCemetery #GatheringSpace #HoustonVenue #HoustonEvents #Houston
In 1896, visitors to Houston's Glenwood Cemetery encountered a dilapidated main entrance bridge, propped up with logs over a 118-foot ravine. The only alternative was a narrow, low bridge that flooded during rains. Seeking a solution, the cemetery approached the Indiana Bridge Company, which presented five design options ranging from $1,050 to $11,850.
However, financial issues arose from unpaid assessments, prompting the Court to suggest filling the ravine with dirt. Ultimately, a more appealing solution was approved: the cemetery borrowed $2,500, allowing local builder Andrew McCabe to construct a beautiful masonry-and-concrete bridge for $2,200, ensuring safe passage for visitors.
📸 Swipe to check out the original 1896 blueprints and engineering specs from the archives!
#HoustonHistory #GlenwoodCemetery #VintageBlueprints #TexasHistory #1890s #BridgeEngineering #IndianaBridgeCompany #AndrewMcCabe
Today, we remember John L. Wortham (1862–1924), whose leadership in both public service and business helped shape Houston during a period of remarkable growth. After serving on the Texas Railroad Commission and as Texas Secretary of State, Wortham moved to Houston and, with his son Gus, founded the insurance agency John L. Wortham & Son. The firm became an important part of Houston's growing business community and reflected the city's emergence as a commercial center in the early twentieth century. On what would have been his birthday, we honor his contributions to Houston and the legacy he left behind.
📍 John L. Wortham is interred at Glenwood Cemetery.
#GlenwoodCemetery #NotableInterred #HoustonHistory #OnThisDay #HoustonTX #Houston #HistoricHouston
Meet the Eastern Hognose Snake, one of the many native wildlife species that calls Glenwood home. Easily recognized by its distinctive upturned nose, this harmless snake uses it to dig through sandy soil in search of one of its favorite foods - toads.
Often called the "drama queen" of the snake world, the Eastern Hognose puts on quite the performance when threatened. It may hiss, flatten its neck, or even play dead, all in an effort to convince predators to leave it alone.
��Snakes play an important role in healthy ecosystems by helping maintain balanced wildlife populations and serving as both predators and prey. Every wildlife sighting is a reminder that Glenwood is not only a place of history but also an important habitat for native species.💚🐍
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�#glenwoodcemetery #snakeday #houston #historichouston #gardencemetery #wildlife #hognosesnake
Happy 713 Day, Houston! 🤘 For more than 150 years, Glenwood has been woven into the story of our city. As we celebrate Houston today, we also honor the people, history, and natural beauty that continue to make this place so special. Spend some time exploring the stories, landscapes, and wildlife that make Glenwood a treasured part of Houston.✨ � �
#glenwoodcemetery #houston #713day #historichouston #houstonhistory #gardencemetery #silentgarden
Holiday Announcement: Glenwood will be closed on Monday, September 7th, in observance of Labor Day. We'll reopen on Tuesday, September 8th, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.