“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God”: Piano Monument Honors Short Life of Estelle Brazier

VICKSBURG, Miss. by Evan Winschel (VDN) — Today’s featured spotlight is dedicated to Estelle Brazier. (1889-1911) Unfortunately, the loquaciousness of eulogies afforded to men was not reciprocated for many women during the period in which Ms. Brazier lived. Therefore, very little is documented of her almost 22 years of life. We do know that she was born November 5, 1889 to parents James and Louie Brazier, and that she “was greatly admired for her many sweet traits among a large circle of friends.”

Even The Vicksburg Post commented on her generosity of spirit after being the beneficiaries of a bushel of peaches picked by Estelle on her family’s property saying, “This remembrance is heartily appreciated, and our warmest thanks are extended to the charming young lady.”

At an early age, Estelle began to consistently suffer from what was described as a “rheumatism” and traveled frequently with her parents to the healing waters of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The famed springs bubbling from the earth saw pilgrimages of people from all corners of the country flock to the area in the hopes of eradicating themselves of their ailments and diseases. Sadly, her condition proved to be immune to the elixir alleged to be emitted from the springs, and she passed away on the 25th day of January 1911.

Her obituary read “Word was received today, bringing the sad tidings of the death of Miss Estelle Brazier, a sweet young Vicksburg lady, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Miss Brazier had gone to Hot Springs for treatment for rheumatism, having been accompanied by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Brazier. The body will be shipped here, and the funeral will be held in Vicksburg, arrangements to be announced later.”

Her parents, desiring a fitting tribute for their beloved daughter, thought back on memories of Estelle and her most cherished hobbies. With their vision in mind, they contracted the A.J. Martin Marble Company to bring it to life, with Brothers Guy and Victor Fletcher carefully smoothing and polishing each specially designed piece.

On the day of installation in the family plot, James and Louie Brazier finally laid eyes on the perfect memorial for their precious child and her musical talent…a piano immortalized in stone. Below the marble ivories is the inscription, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” with a porcelain picture of Estelle above the peddles.

Cedar Hill Cemetery Association was formed in 2024 with the goal of assisting the City of Vicksburg in restoration and beautification of our historic Cedar Hill Cemetery. The Association will be presenting its inaugural tour event “Voices from the Hills” on October 16, 17, and 18, 2025 as part of Vicksburg’s Bicentennial Celebrations. For more information or to get involved, contact chcassociation@yahoo.com or visit their Facebook page.