Our Lady Of Guadalupe Font - Stafford VA
N 38° 28.339 W 077° 23.780
18S E 290950 N 4260942
Quick Description: A large stone font stands near an outdoor altar at a Catholic church in Stafford, VA.
Location: Virginia, United States
Date Posted: 6/28/2010 3:56:10 PM
Waymark Code: WM94TE
Views: 1
Long Description:A large stone font stands near the
Our Lady Of Guadalupe
shrine in Stafford, VA. This outdoor altar is located on the grounds of the St. William of York Catholic Church on Rt. 1.
The font is on a raised circular platform made of stone and concrete. A pedestal with a decorative pineapple sits in the middle of the basin. A drain is at the base of the pedestal. The pineapple is traditionally considered a symbol of hospitality. Interestingly, Christopher Columbus brought back the first pineapple to Europe from the island of Guadeloupe in 1493.¹
Comprehensive research reveals scant documentation on the origins of this font or the shrine. Two plaques mounted at the site are inscribed with the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one in English and one in Spanish. The altar receives visitors daily who pay homage by leaving fresh flowers and lit candles.
The font can be viewed at any time. There is ample parking available which may be limited during Sunday services or other scheduled events at the church.
¹Symbolism Of The Pineapple