On the edge of Capitol Hill, Congressional Cemetery is filled with famous and historic figures, but the nonprofit group that runs the 35-acre graveyard wants you to know there’s room for you.
In addition to famous people like J. Edgar Hoover and John Philip Sousa, “We also have an incredible assortment of little-known people who have amazing stories,” said Margaret Puglisi, who helps run Congressional.
It's begun a marketing campaign to attract those who might like to forever rest 18 blocks from the Capitol.
“Everyone thinks you have to be a member of Congress or rich and famous to be buried here,” Paul Williams said. “Like we always say, you just have to be dead.”
About 1,000 grave sites are for sale, and Washington Monument-style obelisks will hold future urns.
On the register of historic places, Congressional hosts all sorts of events – including Halloween parties -- to cover its $1 million annual budget. One moneymaker is dog walking. Lots of folks want to pay $275 to get in and walk.
“We have 600 people on the wait list trying to join this program,” said Williams, adding that they have about 770 dogs in the program.
