SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — Every year for Halloween, Joshua Patenaude transforms his front yard into a graveyard of businesses and local landmarks of the past. This year he’s made a few additions to his decorations, poking fun at a rather scary sight; the Washington Bridge. “I added the Washington Bridge, Ames, Western Auto, and Apex this year,” Patenaude said. “I just thought that one was fun, a lot of local people will get a kick out of it so it kind of just had to happen.” The cemetery is inspired by companies New Englanders knew and loved but shuttered their doors, including Toys “R” Us, Blockbuster, and the Christmas Tree Shops. “Rhode Island’s had a lot of really big businesses that have gone under and some of them are older, but they all played a part in everything, now everyone buys everything from Amazon, including myself,” Patenaude said. Patenaude also makes all of the tombstones himself. While the Washington Bridge may be something not everyone loves, he added that it’s something everyone can relate to. “My sister lives on the other side of the bridge so she’s dealt with all the struggles,” Patenaude said. Last year, Patenaude’s Halloween décor caught the attention of many. “I wasn’t expecting it to go viral, it was really cool to see how all of these places played a part in people’s life,” he said. So next time you’re in Smithfield, be sure to stop by Dean Avenue for a haunting you’ll never forget. Categories: News