Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in April 2021.
In a heartening revelation, Zach Medlin’s leisurely stroll through Kiroli Park in West Monroe, Louisiana, uncovered a hidden gem that had gone unnoticed for years. Amongst the fallen leaves and pine needles, a small square stone emerged, catching Medlin’s attention.
While Medlin’s one-eyed Staffordshire terrier, Serena, was engrossed in chasing ducks by the nearby lake, Medlin’s curiosity led him to unveil the stone.
Photo Credit: Zach Medlin/Facebook
“The inscription was covered by some pine straw,” Medlin shared with Fox News. “So I had to clear the pine straw out of the way to read what the grave marker had to say.”
The inscription revealed the story of Buddie, 1928 — 1941, born a dog and died a gentleman. Medlin couldn’t help but ponder why this dog was laid to rest in a 160-acre public park.
From the poignant inscription, Medlin sensed that Buddie was a truly remarkable dog deeply cherished by his family during the trying times of the Great Depression.
Photo Credit: Zach Medlin/Facebook
“Knowing that Buddie provided comfort to his owners during the Great Depression is truly heartening,” Medlin expressed. “All dogs deserve a grave marker.”
Local lore suggested that Kiroli Park was once a summer camp for the Boy Scouts, with Buddie serving as their mascot. According to the tale, Buddie’s heroic barks saved a drowning boy, alerting other Scouts who managed to rescue him.
Photo Credit: Findagrave
However, diligent research challenges this narrative. Lora Peppers, exploring newspaper clippings, stumbled upon a handwritten note dated October 18, 1993, on Findagrave.com. The note, credited to Mrs. Dee Strickland, presented a different twist: “According to Mrs. Dee Strickland, the dog belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Albert H. Jones, 215 Breard St., Monroe. Mrs. Strickland lived with the Jones [family] in 1932. The dog was a beautiful Irish setter.
“Having often brought him to Kiroli Park for exercise, Mr. Jones opted to lay his cherished dog to rest in the same park upon his passing.”
Regardless of whether Buddie was a hero to a group of Boy Scouts or solely to his family, one undeniable fact remains – Buddie was undoubtedly a very good boy. The heartwarming memorial stands as a lasting tribute, ensuring the memory of this exceptional dog endures.
In a world filled with inspiring stories, the unexpected discovery of Buddie’s resting place adds a touch of warmth to the narrative of man’s best friend. As Medlin stumbled upon this hidden piece of history, it serves as a reminder that even in the most unassuming places, tales of loyalty, courage, and love can be unearthed, resonating with the hearts of all who encounter them.