Pictured is Center Grove’s tribute to the unknown soldiers who served; our appreciation to the legion as a reminder that Memorial Day is a special day because of sacrifice. It was first known as Decoration Day and was created by mothers following the Civil War between the states.

By Beverly Clinkingbeard

It may have been a cold day in January, 1880, when J. H. Filson, T.J. Wright (Justice of the Peace), along with others tied their horses to the hitching post at Center Grove School.

Since 1845-46, the cemetery had served the rural community. Settlers had quickly found their way to fertile Atchison County (established 1845) farmland. By 1880, Westboro was being established with railroad service. It was time for the citizens to formalize and form the Center Grove Cemetery Association. They also wanted to add six acres to the existing grounds. Filson was elected chairman and Wright secretary.

In June, 1880, they furthered association plans “…viz the Southwest Division of the new addition (the six acres), having been previously lotted and numbered and there being 30 family lots paid for at $5 per lot… 30 tickets numbered from one to 30 were placed in a hat and drawing of the same resulted in the distribution as shown.”

The names and lot numbers are listed in the record [book]. For this they utilized large ledger books and for many years recorded in two books, in the event of an officer’s home being blown away in a storm or house fire.

The association has been served by many citizens. In some periods it was kept presentable with volunteer help, a flock of sheep, and through the years there were many trusted workers hired. A special call out these days to Chic Stevens, Donald Lee Martin and daughter, Jo, and Alan McNaughton for their toil at the cemetery.

On Memorial Day the Legion from Tarkio will present a patriotic program honoring those who have served our nation in the military. (See the schedule on page 11.) Prior to the program, refreshments are served in the building. Following the program, there will be a business meeting continuing the tradition of the association keeping the cemetery in order.

Then, as now, cemetery funding was derived from the sale of lots and monetary gifts. Because of the US Bank closing in Tarkio, funds were withdrawn and deposited at The Farmers State Bank, 512 Main, Tarkio, MO 64491. Donations may be sent directly to the Center Grove bank account, or c/o Justin Riggins, 34126 Maple St., Westboro, MO 64498. Center Grove has also joined the digital age. Check it out at centergrovecemetery.com.

’Til next time.