Page "Edgar Allan Poe" Paragraph 51

Adding to the mystery surrounding Poe's death, an unknown visitor affectionately referred to as the " Poe Toaster " paid homage to Poe's grave annually beginning in 1949.

As the tradition carried on for more than 60 years, it is likely that the " Poe Toaster " was actually several individuals, though the tribute was always the same.

Every January 19, in the early hours of the morning, the person made a toast of cognac to Poe's original grave marker and left three roses.

Members of the Edgar Allan Poe Society in Baltimore helped protect this tradition for decades.

On August 15, 2007, Sam Porpora, a former historian at the Westminster Church in Baltimore where Poe is buried, claimed that he had started the tradition in the 1960s.

Porpora said the claim that the tradition began in 1949 was a hoax in order to raise money and enhance the profile of the church.

His story has not been confirmed, and some details he gave to the press have been pointed out as factually inaccurate.

The Poe Toaster's last appearance was on January 19, 2009, the day of Poe's bicentennial.