Despite the setbacks faced by the "Friends of Shannon Cemetery Committee" throughout their protracted fight to have gravestones returned to their rightful gravesites, this steadfast group of descendants, concerned residents, and many other people and groups who have worked together for this cause, have accomplished important progress to save their small pioneer cemetery in Bluffton, Ohio.
They are making a progress that others can learn from as well. The steps they have taken serve to inspire those with cemeteries of concern of their own that face the same or similar issues where too much history has already been lost, and they recognize that what is left needs to be saved and preserved.
The latest news report from "The Courier" in Findlay regarding the Shannon Cemetery lists the recommendations for its future. They are clear and concise. Now, the Village of Bluffton needs to work as a partner with the "Friends of Shannon Cemetery" to see that they are properly implemented to ensure that the Shannon Cemetery stays a cemetery.
The "Friends of Shannon Cemetery" have come a long way to save their beloved burial ground from being turned into a "cemetery park" where no gravestones would stand over their proper gravesites. It doesn't have to end that way!
