Overgrown Cemetery in Center Township Awaits Restoration

Center Township Trustee Jesse Harper stands before an overgrown cemetery, uncovered within his remit. The cemetery was absent from office records, mistakenly appearing on maps in Liberty Township. A grave marker for ‘Pierre, Faithful Poodle, Loyal Friend’ was found among the foliage.

Labeled as Kine 3 Cemetery, its neglect left Harper uncertain about the location of human graves. Adjacent headstones belong to pets interred in 1972. Harper speculates on the presence of early settlers, given the cemetery’s pioneer origins. ‘We don’t know the number of graves or headstones here,’ he remarked.

James Coleman, owner of Edge of Liberty Farm, alerted Harper about the cemetery neglected for years. Kine 1 and Kine 2 lie nearby, but Harper mistakenly assumed Kine 3 was outside his jurisdiction.

Until I brought you out here, this gate hasn’t been opened in eight years, Coleman said.

Coleman’s property line adjoins the cemetery, explaining his farm’s name. The area once impenetrable is now accessible, thanks to a pond and path installed by Coleman. His wife, Nancy Calafati, confirmed the cemetery measures 24 by 24 feet.

The site requires maintenance, with plans to involve a volunteer group linked to the Daughters of the American Revolution. ‘People take hobby interest in old cemeteries,’ Harper noted. A surveyor will be consulted to delineate property lines before volunteer work begins. Liability coverage is another consideration.

In an effort to avoid damage, clearing must be cautiously executed. The hidden headstones could be buried beneath inches of mud. ‘I could be standing on one now,’ Harper said.

Access through Calumet Avenue is absent. While law permits land acquisition for access, Harper opts for a cooperative approach. Coleman has agreed to permit entry via his farm.

Harper anticipates historians and maintenance teams to frequent the site once cleared. He contemplates employing a specialized service for locating buried headstones, showcased at conventions.

With hopes pinned on a spring cleanup, Harper invites volunteers to engage by contacting the township office at (219) 462-0810. Restoration of the long-abandoned graveyard is a high priority for Harper.

Doug Ross, serving as a freelance reporter, covers stories for the Post-Tribune.