Nestled beside the “Out in the Rain” fountain, is the unimposing tombstone of Sarah Avary Evans (1842-1902), second wife of Brigadier General Clement A. Evans. Sarah was the daughter of Dr. James Corbin Avary (1818-1873) and Susan Frances Carr (1824-1899). Her first husband died leaving her a young widow. In 1887, Sarah married General Evans. He brought four surviving children to the marriage. Shortly thereafter, they had a daughter, Sarah Lee Evans Lippincott (1889-1972).

Sarah was a member of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and is listed in the 1911 directory with the member number 83727. Sarah died suddenly. Many were shocked to learn of her death. More tragic is that her husband was not interred beside her. Upon his death in 1911, Gen. Evans was interred in the Confederate Section (see discussion tomorrow).

Investigation: During one of the my trips to Oakland, I received the word “dress” while beside Sarah’s tombstone. I have not found any relationship or link between the two. However, I was deeply saddened when I read of her not resting in peace beside her husband. Further, her daughter is not buried in Oakland, but is interred in the West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Pennsylvania. That’s why I wrote about her. She does have a beautifully landscaped family plot with lots of ivy.