As a result of the work performed by Len Strozier with Omega Mapping Systems, 183 unmarked graves have been located at Dutch Hollow Hanger Cemetery. They need to be marked in a way that future generations will not have to redo what you all have so generously helped facilitate thus far.
Using the suggestion of Mr. Len Strozier, I am in the process of planning to order enough 3-1/2 inch diameter numbered stainless-steel markers to be able to identify each grave location. They are held in place with a 10 inch by ½ inch galvanized spike and rest level with the top of the ground and will be individually numbered. I have shopped and price compared, and Holland Supply Company seems to be the cheapest as I compare apples to apples with other companies. The goal is to mark every grave but for now the most important are those with no markers whatsoever in place.
I considered how to go about funding this project as we are about $500.00 short of having enough to get all the markers that we need. The total cost for the markers and shipping is approximately $1,743.50. I shared this email with a very close church friend to proofread and he donated the shortfall. With his donation we can mark every burial in the cemetery. What a generous token to each of us that have ancestors and relatives buried at Dutch Hollow. He has no kin buried there!
I do feel that each of you, whether you were here for the work or not, should have ownership in what goes on at the cemetery. To this end I have decided to make a page on the website for those that wish to help sponsor the grave marker project. I will not list the amounts given by anyone so you can donate one dollar or one hundred and one dollars and you will still be listed as a sponsor. This may not appeal to some folks, and I can assure you that asking for donations in no way appeals to me either, but I must try to do my best to complete this project as best I can and share in the ownership of the work that is being done. So, to be clear, we have enough money to cover the purchase (barely) and anything you wish to donate will go towards offsetting that expenditure.
If you do wish to be part of this project, you can donate on the website or just mail a check like some of you do from time to time. If you wish to sponsor the project in honor or memory of someone that will be posted to the website as well. Just put clear directions in the Donor Comments Box when you donate online or put it on the reference line if you mail a check. Again, it pains me to ask for donations and I certainly understand if you cannot donate at this time. If you do decide to be part of this in any amount, know that your donations are both tax deductible but more importantly, Greatly Appreciated! Glenn
