Governor Terry E. Brandstad, has proclaimed the month of May as Cemetery Appreciation Month in Iowa.  The proclamation states “where as, Iowans are aware of the need to preserve the rich heritage contained in Iowa’s pioneer historical cemeteries; and where as, this appreciation of their ancestors’ resting places develops a sense of pride in their ancestor’s accomplishments and in their communities and where as, pride and respect for our pioneers leads an interest in and  concern for the future;  now, therefore, I Terry E. Branstad, Governor of the State of Iowa, do hereby proclaim the month of May CEMETERY APPRECIATION MONTH”.

 

Cemeteries are not just a burial ground but are much more.  For some the cemetery is the only record that the person ever lived.  It is a legacy.  In cemeteries, lives are commemorated; deaths are recorded; families are united; and memories are made tangible.

 

A cemetery is a history of the community – a perpetual record of yesterday and also a sanctuary of peace and quiet today.  A cemetery is an outdoor historical museum. Communities need to accord respect to cemeteries, families bestow reverence and historians seek information from cemeteries.  Cemeteries enrich the heritage of our community and provide a permanent place of remembrance.

 

Persons across the sate who are interested in preserving these sacred, historic “outdoor museums” for future generations will be planning and participating in activities related to their restoration and maintenance.  Please consider volunteering in your community in assisting your local genealogical or historical society or cemetery commission in the preservation of Iowa’s cultural heritage in this unique way.

 

This Memorial Day take a walk through a cemetery.  Read the names and the comments recorded there.  Look at the design and the styles of markers.  You may find some interesting things.  As we are into remembering  theCivil War Sesquicentennial look for those graves of our veterans from the Civil War with GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) markers on their graves.  Appreciate the history, art and stories recorded in the cemetery.

 

Frieda Davis

Member of SAPIC (State Association of the Preservation of Iowa Cemeteries)

Vinton, Iowa