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."

Monday, August 19, 2024

Sharing photographs from Melissa Murray Masters from her supervised visit with her two grandchildren at the Butcher Cemetery (AKA Walnut Grove Cemetery) in North Lewisburg, Champaign County, Ohio - August 10 - 11, 2024

Extending my appreciation to Melissa Murray Masters for her interest in and efforts at the Walnut Grove Cemetery. It is the proper name for the more commonly known name of "Butcher" Cemetery that sits on the hilltop of Tallman Street in North Lewisburg, located in the northeastern corner of Champaign County, Ohio.

Sharing some of Melissa's photographs she took over the weekend of August 10 and 11, 2024 at the Butcher Cemetery.

 Together with two of her grandchildren, Melissa cleared away several downed branches that had been strewn throughout the little cemetery.  

Melissa and her "crew" loaded the debris via a handy and quite useful golf cart to the back of the cemetery where such debris had been waiting for the "powers that be" -- possibly the Village's Street Department - to remove them from the cemetery.  We hope that happens soon

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Below is the sinking government issued marble marker for Civil War veteran, "C. E." Evans - Charles E. Evans.   

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Below is the downed marker for James Eckles.
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It was a productive group effort that is appreciated so much!  

The children were eager to try to improve the condition of the cemetery I'm told; and their volunteer time working there was well spent!  

It was a win-win for everyone! 

The youngsters will remember years from now that they had made a positive difference at a local cemetery that had for far too long been neglected and lacking in recognition and respect by the community for being the sacred ground that it is - the final resting place of about 100 early North Lewisburg pioneers.

Their example will inspire others to follow their lead giving the Butcher Cemetery more hope for a brighter future. 

And, they got to spend quality time with their grandmother!
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