Homestead Cemetery Company

The Homestead Cemetery Company is a non-profit organization established to manage the historic Homestead Cemetery, located in the Monongahela Valley. Incorporated in 1886, the company was formed to provide a burial ground that was "free from any bias of sect or creed," serving the growing community in the region[1][2].

History

At its inception, the cemetery was envisioned by its founding board members, including President Lowry H. West, Secretary John F. Cox, and others, to be a first-class cemetery. The initial purchase of approximately 38 acres of land cost $64,550[2]. The cemetery has played a significant role in the region's history, memorializing individuals involved in pivotal events such as the Civil War, the 1892 Homestead Steel Strike, the Great Depression, and World War II, as well as the Civil Rights movement[1].

In the early 20th century, the cemetery expanded with the addition of the Annex area in 1921. However, by 2015, financial mismanagement led to bankruptcy, causing the cemetery to fall into disrepair. Following this, volunteers and community groups attempted to maintain the grounds until a new board was reinstated in 2018[2].

Revitalization Efforts

In 2019, the cemetery returned to non-profit status, and since then, numerous revitalization projects have been undertaken. These include the regular maintenance of grass, the installation of new Veterans markers, the restoration of the Soldiers Monument, and the conversion of the caretakers' residence into a chapel[2]. Additionally, efforts such as the digitization of records and the creation of comprehensive maps have been implemented to improve the management and preservation of the cemetery[2].

Community Involvement

Community engagement plays a crucial role in the ongoing restoration and maintenance of the cemetery. The "Friends of the Homestead Cemetery," a 501(c)(3) fundraising group, organizes events and fundraising campaigns to support these efforts[3]. The organization collaborates with local entities and has received support from various community groups and organizations[5].

Mission

The primary mission of the Homestead Cemetery Company is to restore and preserve the cemetery as a testament to the region's history and a place of remembrance for those interred there. The company aims to ensure that the cemetery remains a peaceful memorial site for generations to come[1][2].

[1] https://www.thehomesteadcemetery.com [2] https://www.thehomesteadcemetery.com/history [3] https://www.thehomesteadcemetery.com/fothc [4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcusneRBUIk [5] https://www.thehomesteadcemetery.com/donate