Monday

How You Can Save History! Adopt A Block

Evergreen Cemetery has the distinction of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was once revered by many locals as "the largest outdoor rose garden in the world", whose sweet scent could be noted as far as a mile away.

No automatic alt text available.The cemetery, which covers about 220 acres, is comprised of blocks, laid out much like a typical city.  Currently there are approximately 150 blocks, and each may contain up to several hundred gravesites.  Although the City provides basic grounds maintenance such as irrigation and mowing, care of the monuments and sites in each block is not provided.  Evergreen Cemetery Benevolent Society, a non-profit partner with the Cemetery, fills the gap through its Adopt A Block Program, staffed solely by volunteers.  The Society is seeking additional residents to adopt a block of their choosing and become a Block Captain. 

No automatic alt text available.Becoming a Block Captain is easy and rewarding.  You can select any block you wish.  Typically blocks in the older sections need more TLC, as there are fewer family members left to provide care.  Once you have chosen a block, you will receive guidelines for caring for your adopted area.  You make your own schedule, depending on your available time.  You may be involved in trimming shrubbery, small plants or roses, picking up debris, straightening small monuments, reporting damage or vandalism, and generally keeping the area tidy.  Those with an interest in photography may wish to photograph all the monuments in their block to document their current condition. Training is provided periodically on the proper methods of cleaning monuments without harming them, and repairing minor damage.  During warmer months, Block Captains solicit volunteers to help with special project days. 

Adopting a block would be an excellent way for companies or corporations to foster group activities and team building.  Schools, clubs, teams, hobby groups, churches and many other organizations may enjoy adopting a piece of our local  history.

By adopting a block, you will enable our city to keep the unique and beautiful legacy that is Evergreen Cemetery enjoyable for generations to come.  For more information or details about becoming a Block Captain, please contact Dianne Hartshorn at 719-385-6251, or Mark Robbins at 727-244-9031.  Visit us on Facebook or go to Evergreencemeterysociety.com or send an email to evergreencemeterysociety@yahoo.com