The Oldest Cemetery In Indiana Is More Than 225 Years Old And Has A Fascinating History
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Tori Jane
Author
Vincennes, Indiana is historically known as Indiana’s very first city, having been established in 1732 by a French military officer. When the Indiana Territory was established in the 1800s, Vincennes became its new capital. Once a super-busy outpost for the local fur trade, the town turned later to agriculture and found themselves to be quite successful within the trade.
William Henry Harrison became the very first governor of Vincennes. He would later go on to become the ninth President of the United States.
Every city has its spooky side, though, and this one is no different. Vincennes is home to the oldest cemetery in Indiana.
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The letter claims they had been burying folks there since 1788. It didn't have a formal name - known only as "The American Cemetery," it sat on the outskirts of town for decades. It was expanded in 1898, including a section for people of color.
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It is believed that Greenlawn may be the final resting place of more than 10,000 people. Regular, hard-paper written records didn't begin at the cemetery until 1907, so it isn't quite known just how many folks rest there.
Trees were planted, grass was manicured, and the grounds became a peaceful place of respite.
Some folks have claimed that someone whispers in your ear when you walk among the graves, but we can't say for sure. One would think, though, that a resting place of over 10,000 people would certainly have some lingering souls.
Folks who are interested in visiting this historic cemetery can visit the Vincennes town website here.
Have you ever been to this cemetery? Did you get around to reading every headstone? Tell us about it in the comments!
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919 Willow St, Vincennes, IN 47591, USA