How to Save the Raleigh Cemetery

How many of you have ever been to a cemetery to visit a loved one's grave? Did you expect the grounds to be clean and well maintained? I want you to try to imagine how you would feel if that cemetery was in the condition that The Raleigh Cemetery has been in for at least 60 years. Wouldn't you want something to be done about it? How can a city that encourages residents to take responsibility for the appearance of their community through a City Beautiful Commission allow a historic landmark to be in such a sad state of repair? Benjamin Franklin said, "Show me your cemeteries, and I will tell you what kind of people you have." If Mr. Franklin could see The Raleigh Cemetery what would he think of the people of Memphis? Not too highly, I'd bet. I want to convince you that The Raleigh Cemetery needs to be thoroughly cleaned, effectively maintained, and that something needs to be done to preserve this piece of our history. I hope to persuade at least one of you to help make a difference for the cemetery. I have some suggestions on how to do this.

Now that you have seen the problem, let me tell you about the solution. First, The Raleigh Cemetery has to be thoroughly cleaned. According to the Commercial Appeal it has been largely neglected and in similar condition since the 1940's. Weeds and foliage hide graves. Trash litters the ground. Broken headstones have been thrown over the fence.

Despite repeated promises to clean up the cemetery by politicians such as Tim Joyce, the current owner, volunteers and civic groups are the only people who have tried to improve the appearance. All it would take is a little hard work, time, and some lawn equipment. Any mowing or weed eating would greatly improve the sad condition of the cemetery.