The Canby Heritage and Landmark Commission and volunteers are holding their fifth annual historic grave marker cleaning event at the city-owned Zion Memorial Cemetery, which is more than 120 years old.
The HLC is looking for volunteers who want to help clean historic markers, exposing the artwork and inscriptions hidden under layers of moss and grime.
Families and volunteers of all ages are encouraged to participate in a scrubbing the HLC admits may be a “bit messy,” but also “incredibly rewarding.”
The cleaning will take place in the historic section of Zion Memorial Cemetery, which was established with the burial of Christian Wintermantel, the man who originally proposed the cemetery, in January 1897.
The historic section contains an estimated 1,700 grave sites.
“Yes, Zion Memorial is a home for the dead, but it also teaches us about those who came before us and what was important to these people,” the commission said in a press release.
“Many crossed the Oregon Trail, fought historic battles or wark to establish homesteads and a successful town. It’s an opportunity to serve those important to our past and present.”
The event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 24. Zion Memorial Cemetery is located at 2010 Southeast Township Road.
In an annual partnership with the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries, the HLC provides marker-friendly cleaning tools and product, along with training on the proper procedures to ensure the historic markers are not damaged during the cleaning process. Bottled water will also be provided.
If you want to participate or have questions, please contact Judi Jarosh at 503-887-3047 or jmjarosh@msn.com.
