Fulton Journal
June 7, 1861
Among the most commendable acts of our present able and efficient City Council, not the least is that of fencing the Cemetery.
It had long been a source of mortification to many of our citizens, that within the extensive bounds of the city, no spot consecrated to the burial of the dead could be found where the remains of a departed relative or friend could be deposited with safety.
We think it hard when the force of circumstances makes it necessary to leave the mortal part of one we have loved and cherished to bleach and moulder in the wilds of some far off uninhabited region; and how bitter is the necessity which some times occurs, of committing to the deep sea and its monster inhabitants the once proud casement of a noble heart.
Our better feelings would always prompt us to bestow the last sad office upon the dead in a manner which would imply most fully the affection we entertain for the living. When no absolute necessity for it exists, there is then no excuse for any neglect to pay proper respect to the memory of the departed.
It must be a matter of gratulation with our citizens that Fulton is at last about to be relieved from the stigma of an unfenced, unadorned and neglected Cemetery. A project was set on foot two years ago, and through it, we believe the necessary funds for fencing the grounds were obtained, but for some reason, satisfactory no doubt to those who assumed the charge of the matter, the fence was never built, and those who contributed have never heard from their money. The Council have now very properly taken hold of the matter, and in a few days the Street Commissioner, Mr. Needbain, will have enclosed the grounds with a neat and substantial fence.
The location is on the highest ground in the city, commanding a view of the Mississippi River, Lyons, Clinton and the country for many miles in extent. If properly improved and beautified it can be made one of the finest Cemeteries in the West. It is to be hoped that those who have friends buried there, will co-operate with our city fathers in the good work they have begun, and that very soon full compensation in the way of improvements will be made for the neglect of the past.
