The Haserot Angel

Tucked away in the quiet, shaded alleys of Lake View Cemetery in the city of Cleveland is one of the most captivating pieces of memorial art — the Haserot Angel. Officially titled "The Angel of Death Victorious," this bronze sculpture stands at the grave of businessman Francis Haserot and is an iconic landmark not only for the state of Ohio but for the entire USA.

The main feature that brought the statue worldwide fame is its "black tears." It appears as though the angel is weeping inconsolably, yet this mystical effect occurred naturally: over decades, exposure to the elements caused the bronze to oxidize, and the dark streaks settled perfectly down the sculpture's face. The figure is depicted seated with wide-spread wings and an extinguished torch held upside down, symbolizing the spark of life gone out.

Lake View Cemetery, founded back in 1869, is often called "Cleveland's Arlington." The Haserot Angel has become its unofficial symbol, drawing photographers, artists, and lovers of Gothic aesthetics with its solemn and melancholic beauty. The monument is situated in a picturesque spot among old trees, creating an atmosphere of peace and gentle sadness.

For those planning a visit to the famous memorial, the following contact information for the managing organization will be useful.

The primary goal of a visit is, undoubtedly, a visual encounter with the sculpture itself. Visitors often spend a long time examining the details of the work: the heavy folds of the bronze robe, the powerful wings, and that piercing gaze of the angel, which, combined with the dark oxidation streaks, leaves an indelible impression. This location is perfect for artistic photography, especially on overcast days or in the rays of the setting sun.

Beyond contemplating the "Haserot Angel," it is worth taking a stroll through the grounds of the necropolis itself. Here you can find other impressive monuments, such as the statue of Archangel Michael. The cemetery's vast area allows for a truly meditative walk, enjoying the silence and the craftsmanship of sculptors from past centuries.

For those interested in history at a deeper level, the cemetery administration occasionally organizes themed tours and photo walks. This is a great chance to learn more about the people whose lives were intertwined with the region's development and to appreciate the architectural diversity of the ancient vaults and mausoleums.

The sculpture is located within the grounds of Lake View Cemetery at 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106. The most convenient way to reach the site from the city center is by car or taxi. The drive from downtown takes approximately 15–20 minutes. On-site parking is available for visitors.

If you prefer public transport, you can take a bus or the city’s rapid transit to the nearby stations in the University Circle area, though a short walk will still be required from there. Given the cemetery's vast size (about 280 acres), having your own vehicle will significantly simplify getting around.

To find the statue itself, look for Section 9, Lot 14. The "Haserot Angel" is situated under the shade of trees near the road, close to the prominent Hanna Mausoleum. We recommend picking up a free map at the main office near the entrance or by the Garfield Monument so you don't miss this memorial hidden among the greenery.

This extraordinary sculpture was created in 1924 by the talented Danish-American master Herman Matzen. The sculptor, who spent 40 years teaching at the Cleveland Institute of Art, first modeled the figure in clay before it was cast in bronze. It was commissioned by industrialist Francis Henry Haserot to immortalize the memory of his wife, who passed away in 1919.

From both a historical and artistic perspective, the "Haserot Angel" is a textbook example of funerary symbolism. The upturned torch held by the celestial being is a classic symbol of an extinguished earthly life and the journey's end. The mastery of its execution and deep emotional resonance have turned this private memorial into one of the most recognizable monuments in the USA.

Over time, an aura of mystery has surrounded the statue. The unusual visual effect of "black tears" has sparked numerous urban legends. Some visitors and ghost hunters claim that paranormal phenomena occur near the monument, which only heightens tourist interest in the history of the Haserot family and their sorrowful angel.

Viewing the sculpture and thoughtfully contemplating its details usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes. This is sufficient time to locate the monument in its section, observe the unique oxidation patterns, and take atmospheric photographs.

However, if you wish to explore the entire Lake View Cemetery grounds, see other angelic statues, and visit historical mausoleums, it is better to set aside 2–3 hours for your walk. The location invites slow reflection and a long study of its architectural monuments.

The memorial park grounds are open to the public daily, seven days a week. Typically, the gates are open from 07:30 AM to 07:30 PM, allowing you to choose the most comfortable time for your visit — whether it's early morning for solitary reflection or the pre-sunset hours for striking photographs.

Please note that during the winter period (from the beginning of November to the end of March), operating hours may be reduced. Before your trip, it is highly recommended to check the latest information on the official website of Lake View Cemetery to ensure your visit goes as planned.

A visit to the "Haserot Angel" can be combined with exploring other interesting locations nearby. Lake View Cemetery itself is an open-air museum featuring magnificent landscape design and historical architecture.

Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere, seeing both historical memorials and modern recreational parks.