Exploring Almost Forgotten Gravesites in the Great State of Ohio

Dedicated to cemetery preservation in the great state of Ohio


"A cemetery may be considered as abandoned when all or practically all of the bodies have been Removed therefrom and no bodies have been buried therein for a great many years, and the cemetery has been so long neglected as entirely to lose its identity as such, and is no longer known, recognized and respected by the public as a cemetery. 1953 OAG 2978."

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Spotlighting Joshua Spain Buried at the Butcher Cemetery in North Lewisburg, Champaign County, Ohio

Expressing my thanks to Jessica Rhoads, a kind "Find A Grave" photo volunteer, for going outside and braving the elements on a gray and wintry January day in 2011 to visit the Butcher Cemetery in North Lewisburg, Champaign County, Ohio.

Jessica took several photographs of this toppled stone monument that was erected for Joshua Spain; his wife Mary (Inskeep), and daughter, Emeline. His second wife, Matilda Cowgill Spain is also buried at the Butcher Cemetery. I am not sure if Matilda's name is on this stone, but most likely it is.


This longer distance view poignantly conveys an instant feeling of forlorness. The 'maimed monument' draws our attention as the central figure amid surrounding smaller ground markers that dot the rear of the burying ground's gentle hilltop. If it could only once again stand whole and bear witness for those who it was meant to honor.

Good News! Lack of Thefts at Dayton area Cemeteries Due to Strict Enforcement of Laws

Click on title to read a story in the online edition of the "Dayton Daily News" newspaper of August 28, 2011 written by Mr. Dave Larsen.

The article is entitled:

"Bronze theft at local cemeteries less prevalent than rest of Ohio"

"Officials credit the strict enforcement of laws for the sale of scrap metal."