New Headstone for Annie Winchester

Sarah Winchester was heiress to the Winchester Repeating Arms Company but is better known today for building the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California. Sarah moved to San Jose after the death of her infant daughter, Annie, followed years later by the death of her husband. In 1884, Sarah purchased an eight-room farmhouse and would continue to build on to the house for the next 38 years, until her death on September 5, 1922. A philanthropist, Sarah had given the majority of her vast Winchester inheritance to various charities and notable causes. After her death, Sarah’s safe was opened, only to find a few personal items of her husband’s, a lock of Annie’s hair in a tiny purple velvet box, and a clipping of Annie’s obituary. Even with her vast wealth, these were the only items Sarah treasured.

Sarah Winchester is buried, along with her husband and daughter, in the Evergreen Cemetery in New Haven, Connecticut. On a recent visit of the cemetery, I was sad to see the poor condition of baby Annie’s headstone. (See attached photo. Annie's headstone is to the left of her father's, W.W.W.) I have been in contact with the Evergreen Cemetery regarding the replacement of the headstone. They informed me the cost of a replacement headstone would be $2000. The Evergreen Cemetery is willing to help with a $250.00 donation, preparation of the grounds and the setting fee involved with the care and placement of the new monument.

Please help me in raising the funds to replace the headstone of Annie Winchester.