6. Willow Tree Cemetery

This story is read by Fran Pelley, who is a founding member of the Willow Tree Heritage Society. Fran tells this story from a new, imagined perspective of Elizabeth Kelson, speaking from the great beyond. This story tells of love, loss, and extraordinary kindness following the wreck of the Fanny in 1835. When the vessel was driven ashore in a violent winter gale and all hands were lost, seven bonfires were lit, and the Hant’s Harbour community worked together to go above and beyond. The grief was shared between Trinity and Hant’s Harbour, and the response was one of collective sorrow and steadfast compassion.Through Elizabeth’s voice, the willow tree becomes a living memorial—planted in grief, sustained by community care, and still standing as a symbol of connection between the communities of Trinity and Hant’s Harbour. It reminds us that even in the darkest of moments, the strength of a harbour lies not only in its ships and stages, but in its people.---------------------------The Willow Tree Heritage Society is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization. If you enjoy these stories, please consider supporting our work. Your donation — big or small — helps keep our history alive. You’ll find the donation link at: willowtreeheritage.com.Thanks to the many people who helped bring The Willow Tree Walk to life: ​Produced and recorded by Stéphane Dandeneau ​Story scripts written by Sharon King-Campbell ​Graphic design by Katie Hardy ​Original music by Brad Tuck ​Executive Producer Marlayne HardySpecial thanks to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Cultural Economic Development Program, for their investment and the Town of Hant’s Harbour for their continual support.Join us online: ​Sign up to be added to our email list HERE.​Facebook: @Willow TreeHeritage Society and Museum​Instagram: @willowtreeheritage​Email:  [email protected]​Website: willowtreeheritage.com