On April 6th we ventured into Howard Furnace Cemetery, in Vernon Township, Scioto County, Ohio. This quiet, historic site lies adjacent to the remnants of the Howard Iron Furnace, reflecting the area’s rich iron-working heritage. With permission from the property owners, we were able to explore and document this poignant place, ensuring that the stories here are preserved and shared.
Our mission was to capture the essence of the cemetery through detailed photographs and precise GPS recordings, part of a larger project to chronicle the conditions and narratives of rural cemeteries. Despite some past vandalism, the cemetery still hosts markers that testify to significant historical lives and events.
As we walked through, we observed a variety of markers, from weathered marble to rustic fieldstones, each telling its own story of past lives. Notably, a marker for Jessie May Killpatrick, daughter of Thomas Killpatrick, stands out, offering a glimpse into personal tragedy and family history. These markers vary greatly in condition, presenting ongoing challenges in preservation efforts.
We took special note of the range of burial markers, from the simplest fieldstones to more elaborate government-issued markers for veterans like George Keeney from the 91st Ohio Infantry. This diversity reflects the different socio-economic backgrounds and eras represented here, each contributing to the tapestry of local history.
Innovative preservation efforts caught our eye, such as a grave encased in glass to protect the inscription, showcasing the community’s commitment to remembering and honoring their ancestors despite challenges from the environment.
The tranquil atmosphere of Howard Furnace Cemetery belies the rich and sometimes tumultuous stories of those who rest here. These narratives of life, loss, and legacy resonate deeply, reminding us of the importance of preserving such sites as sanctuaries of memory and historical resources.
We hope our exploration helps highlight the significance of maintaining and respecting these historical sites. They serve not only as resting places but also as invaluable resources for historical and genealogical research.
