The Last Resting Place of Christopher Columbus

The discovery of an ancient leaden burial casket in the Basilica of Santo Domingo, in the place assigned to give sepulchre to Christopher Columbus and his family, caused intense excitement throughout the world. it is well understood that the circumstances leading to and surrounding this unusual discovery, were of such a nature as to merit more than a superficial investigation. When the local writers (1), and historians (2), of the Dominican Republic, first in the field of discovery, set forth their accounts and claims to the effect that the leaden casket contained the authentic remains of Christopher Columbus, it immediately awakened intense interest and started a controversy on two continents, the settlement of which after years of discussion, writings and investigations, is a matter of real interest to all the world and especially to the Americas and Spain.It is the intention of the writer to set forth existing claims as fairly as possible; to submit the case for judgement and to add his own conclusion. He appreciates the fact that he is interested in the subjects He has resided in the Dominican Republic somewhat more than three years. He has been co-operator with the Dominican people in their work during the early period of the Military government of Santo Domingo. During this period there were many opportunities to become acquainted with the people of the country. To have been on friendly terms with them, was an education and pleasure. To converse with the people of the hinterland, learn of their folklore and traditions, and all the local history, was a profitable experience.