Don’t Take a Good Joke for Grant-ed
The longstanding joke, "Who’s buried in Grant’s Tomb?" has stirred debate among both New Yorkers and tourists visiting the iconic Morningside Heights landmark, particularly during the recent observance of Ulysses S. Grant’s death anniversary. While many might instinctively respond with "Grant" or "Grant and his wife," the punchline isn’t so straightforward. Visitors have varied interpretations; some posit that it’s Grant alone, while others include his wife, Julia. One humorous observer even ventured that it could be "anybody," showcasing the nuances that transform this classic joke into a subject of curiosity and misinterpretation.
During a recent visit to Grant’s Tomb, many echoed sentiments about the significance of the punchline, often reflecting on how it has evolved over time. As 75-year-old lifelong New Yorker Pat Sopak said, the joke’s punchline can shift to keep it fresh, suggesting that its absurdity and simplicity contribute to its appeal. The humorous rift underscores not only the cultural significance of the joke itself but its connection to the historical figure of Grant, a Republican from Ohio who lived in New York City for several years and whose 1885 funeral saw a staggering attendance of 1.5 million people—a monumental turnout for a population of just 2 million at the time.
The majestic 150-foot-tall monument in Riverside Park commemorates Grant and was opened after a successful fundraising campaign by the Grand Monument Association, welcoming visitors since its inauguration on April 27, 1897. Currently managed by the National Park Service, the tomb draws approximately 110,000 visitors annually, all curious to explore not just the site, but the quirky questions surrounding it. Park Ranger Miranda Allen frequently encounters the remnants of the joke, revealing that it often creates confusion among guests, who grapple with the semantics of who or what might be inside the tomb.
Allen traces the joke’s origins to the 1950s quiz show "You Bet Your Life," hosted by Groucho Marx. Used as an easy question for contestants, it failed to consider the potential confusion it could create. Attempting to resolve the puzzle, visitors often arrive without a clear understanding of the distinction between being "buried" and housed within a mausoleum. The unexpected twist prompts many to reconsider their assumptions about the joke; instead of a straightforward answer, visitors are left navigating the complexities of language and context.
Interestingly, Allen clarifies that the actual answer to the so-called joke is "no one." This counterintuitive resolution emerges from the specifications of a mausoleum where remains, housed within sarcophagi, are positioned above ground, thus technically disqualifying any claim to “burial.” It forces us to confront not only the playful nature of language but also the enduring legacy of Grant himself, as the memorial stands as a celebration of his life and contributions rather than a somber resting place.
Ultimately, this witty repartee—the blend of humor, historical reflection, and cultural connection—magnifies the significance of Grant’s Tomb beyond a mere tourist attraction. It engages visitors in an ongoing dialogue about semantics, memory, and the myriad ways public figures can remain relevant long after their physical presence has departed. Through such exchanges, the essence of Grant’s legacy, rooted deeply in American history, continues to thrive, demonstrating that even in humor, there are indeed layers worth unpacking.
