-
courtesy photo -
courtesy photo
In recent years, families of those interred at Magnolia Memorial Cemetery north of town expressed concern and dissatisfaction with the caretaking— more specifically, the lack thereof—of the grounds in which their loved ones’ remains were entrusted. Family members noted sinking headstones and weeds more than a foot high throughout the cemetery among additional complaints. Upon taking their concerns to City of Bristow officials, hopes positive change began to grow.
While speaking with Bristow City Cemetery Caretaker Billy Ledbetter and some of those concerned family members, including Letha Caudle, I learned that families’ renewed hope came from the cemetery’s recent acquisition by Bristow Industrial Authority, which will deed the cemetery to the City of Bristow soon. For now, Ledbetter notes that he has been mowing the cemetery himself as he becomes acquainted with the grounds and records.
In fact, Ledbetter noted that extensive plot surveys, research, and organization of records, deeds, and contracts are currently underway with an estimated 70% completion rate, presently. Until all research and organization of cemetery records is completed, no plots may be sold to prevent further error. Additionally, once all record reconciliation efforts are complete, BIA is expected to deed over the cemetery. He specifically cited the great care being taken by city officials and BIA to honor and respect those interred and their families as they rectify the wrongs they have previously experienced.
Since last fall, around a dozen burials have occurred at Magnolia Memorial Cemetery under the oversight of Ledbetter and involved officials. Ledbetter noted that deeds will be required prior to interment within the cemetery, and families may be required to assist cemetery staff in identifying the proper plots and complete an interment agreement. If individuals currently possess deeds, they may visit the Public Works Department, located in the old National Guard Armory building near the Bristow City Cemetery, and present their deeds for verification.
As for the Bristow City Cemetery, Ledbetter excitedly described positive changes occurring there as well. Once such change is thanks to The Dial Foundation, which is sponsoring mapping of the cemetery. Mapping is being conducted grave by grave, utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology by True North Mapping and Solutions out of Ada, Oklahoma.
Made in conjunction with bringing records up-to-date, mapping efforts also exemplify both the short and long-term hopes and goals of identifying every plot and grave in the cemetery and digitizing that information for inclusion in a dedicated, publicly accessible computer and/or via the City’s website.
In addition to the new, positive changes both cemeteries are currently undergoing, Ledbetter wished to remind visitors that all grave decorations must be removed by ten days following holidays, or those items will be removed by caretakers to care for the grounds, adequately and safely.
Respectfully visit each cemetery and visit with staff to learn more about new and exciting developments to come.