Ex-adman says he began Poe toast

BALTIMORE, Aug. 15 (UPI) -- In a twist on the tell-tale heart tale, a former adman said he started the homage of roses and cognac laid at the Baltimore grave of writer Edgar Allan Poe.

Sam Porpora, a 92-year-old Poe devotee, said he began the tradition in the late 1960s as a publicity stunt to aid the church that owned Westminster cemetery, where the author is said to be buried, the Baltimore Sun reported Wednesday.

Once he "restored Poe to greatness," Porpora said he retired from the toasting business and wasn't sure who kept up the midnight presentation since.

Others differ with Porpora's recollection. Jeff Jerome, Poe House and Museum curator, said his research indicated the ritual dates to 1949, the 100th anniversary of the death of the writer, who died mysteriously in Baltimore at age 40.

Through the years, several people have claimed the connection, Jerome told the Sun but few had Porpora's credentials. He was a parishioner of Westminster Church, a caretaker for the adjoining cemetery and its longtime tour guide.

"He is very enthusiastic about Poe and Baltimore history," said Jerome, who added he can't substantiate Porpora's claim.