If you’ve ever wandered through Kiroli Park near the amphitheater, you might have come across a gravestone tucked away on the right side, past the end of the sidewalk. The marker reads:
BUDDIE 1928 – 1941 Born a dog Died a gentleman
This simple yet touching inscription has sparked curiosity and inspired a legend that has endured for decades. But what is the true story behind Buddie’s grave?
The Legend of Buddie
According to local lore, Buddie was the mascot for the Boy Scouts who used Kiroli Park as a summer camp in its early days. Back then, there was no pool, so the Scouts learned to swim in the lake.
The story goes that one day, a Scout swam too far from the group and began to struggle. Buddie, the loyal dog, barked furiously to alert the others and then dove into the lake to save the boy. While the Scout was rescued, Buddie tragically didn’t survive.
This tale of heroism has been passed down through the years, cementing Buddie’s place as a local legend.
Searching for the Truth
Despite the popularity of the story, attempts to verify it have come up empty. A search through the archives of the News-Star newspaper revealed no reports of a Scout nearly drowning or a dog heroically sacrificing itself.
However, there was an incident on June 16, 1931, involving a Scout named Sammie Brown from a Winnsboro troop. Sammie nearly drowned at Kiroli’s pool but was saved by a nearby friend—ironically named Buddie Bubb. This real-life rescue may have become intertwined with the story of Buddie the dog over time, creating the legend we know today.
The Real Buddie
A handwritten note from 1993, found in the library’s special collections, sheds light on Buddie’s true story. According to the note, Buddie was not a Boy Scout mascot but a beloved Irish Setter owned by Mr. and Mrs. Albert H. Jones of Monroe, Louisiana.
Mr. Jones, who worked for the city and was heavily involved in the Boy Scouts and Camp Ki-Ro-Li, often brought Buddie to Kiroli Park to run and play. When Buddie passed away, Mr. Jones decided to bury him in the park as a tribute to his loyal companion.
The inscription, “Born a dog, Died a gentleman,” reflects the deep affection and respect the Jones family had for Buddie.
The Legacy of Buddie
While the legend of Buddie’s heroism may not be entirely true, his grave remains a touching reminder of the bond between humans and their pets. The story of Buddie continues to inspire and warm hearts, whether as a tale of heroism or as a testament to the love and loyalty of a cherished family dog.
If you’d like to learn more, you can visit Buddie’s memorial on Findagrave: Buddie the Dog Memorial.
Additionally, here is a YouTube video exploring the legend of Buddie:
A Lasting Tribute
Even decades later, Buddie’s story lives on, reminding us of the joy and companionship that dogs bring into our lives. Whether fact or legend, Buddie’s memory continues to touch the hearts of those who visit his grave.