The Pioneer & Military Memorial Park invites you to adopt one of the 600 tombstones still standing in the old cemetery as a fundraiser project to aid grave markers needing stabilization, cleaning, and repair.
The Pioneer & Military Memorial Park is the final resting place of some of Arizona's most notable pioneer citizens. It is comprised of seven historic cemeteries which were in use between 1884 and 1914. They are: Ancient Order of United Workers (AOUW), Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), Knights of Pythias (K of P), Loosley, Masons, Porter and Rosedale. In May 1988, the seven historic cemeteries were officially designated as the Pioneer & Military Memorial Park with the dedication of the Avenue of Flags and the new fence. The Park was entered on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.
There are 3700 burials in these cemeteries, but time has left us only about 600 grave markers. This park is truly an “Outdoor Museum of our Heritage.”
The Pioneers’ Cemetery Association wishes to preserve, interpret, and promote through active fund-raising and individual volunteerism the understanding of archaeological resources as exemplified by the prehistoric, historic, and contemporary cultures of the southwestern region. Such cultures include, but are not limited to, the prehistoric Hohokam, historic Mexican, Chinese, and European groups. The PCA hopes to further engage the public in educational programs through on site tours, special events, and exhibits.
TO HELP PCA WITH THIS PROJECT:
Consider “adopting” a tombstone. Your contribution will be earmarked for the care and conservation of the cemetery.
“FIRST AID” LEVEL $10
Adopt a tombstone in good condition.
“PRIMARY CARE” LEVEL $25
Adopt a small problem tombstone that needs to be reset or stabilized.
“OUTPATIENT” LEVEL $50
Adopt slightly damaged tombstone that needs mortar or whitewash cleaning.
“ER” LEVEL $75
Adopt a tombstone with moderate damage that needs re pinning or landscape care.
“ICU” LEVEL $100
Adopt a tombstone with extensive damage needing the aid of professional restoration crew.
Your Contribution will be acknowledged by a letter from the Pioneers’ Cemetery Association and, if you wish, a photograph of the tombstone you have adopted will be sent to you. Your name will appear on the “Adopt a Tombstone Roll” inside the Smurthwaite House. You will be informed of the project’s progress.
For a brochure with more information, please email Pioneercem@yahoo.com or make simply make your checks payable to:
Pioneers’ Cemetery Association
PO BOX 63342
Phoenix, AZ 85082
Pioneer & Military Memorial Park
1317 W Jefferson Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-262-6412
Debe Branning nazanaza@aol.com
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