Work to preserve cemeteries

May is upon us, the grass is green and the trees are budding. Everyone is awaiting the Memorial Day weekend; some for a day off work, others to visit their deceased family members at a cemetery. Whether they are a loved one that recently passed or an ancestor you have never met, remember to set aside the time to honor them. Many are not aware of the struggle cemeteries are facing. In active cemeteries, it is often a financial struggle, while inactive cemeteries are disappearing one by one.

The State Association for the Preservation of Iowa Cemeteries (SAPIC) strives to preserve them. We have worked since 1996 to document, restore, protect from further loss and learn. Not everyone is in favor of these preservation efforts.

Please respect the landowners and private lands. SAPIC also has worked with legislators and state officials, preservation specialists and archaeologists, farmers and citizens in efforts to honor our ancestors. We offer grants for cemetery restoration and present awards to those whose passion has driven them to the helm of preservation.

You can help by becoming better informed about these activities and the changes constantly taking place. We have great resources for those interested in our cause. We would love to hear from you and our meetings and membership are always open.

Make sure these memorials survive so that future generations receive the same opportunity to pay tribute. Visit http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~iasapc/.

Tony Bengston

Independence