Wrzesinski: Cemeteries offer a walk through our local history

It may sound strange, but one day, you should take some time and visit a cemetery. I’m not talking about just any cemetery. There are two located in unincorporated Downers Grove Township that we have been maintaining since 1985. While it isn’t a typical Saturday afternoon outing, it is one that is unique and will paint a picture of the long and rich history of our community.

Oak Hill and Oak Crest Cemeteries are adjacent to one another in Downers Grove. When you take a walk through, not only will you see graves of many of the village’s early pioneers and settlers, you will notice many grave markers of war veterans. Look closely and you’ll see veterans who fought in the War of 1812, the Spanish-American War, the Civil War, World War I, World War II and Vietnam. Such service to our country is something to be admired and respected. That is why the township is appreciative of various community organizations and individuals that have worked to bring many needed updates and improvements over the past few years. Soon we will be holding a ceremony to honor the 45 Civil War veterans buried there.

The Oak Hill/Oak Crest Cemeteries Foundation, a nonprofit supporting the township cemeteries and the Philip H. Sheridan Camp of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War will conduct a dedication ceremony for three new grave markers. The ceremony that will be held on Sept. 19 at Oak Hill Cemetery will be a time to honor those who fought and died in the Civil War and to hear more about Downers Grove’s involvement and the experiences of the three veterans that will be receiving the markers.

The township is proud to be able to maintain these important pieces of local history. The opportunities to collaborate with so many people over the years to restore and maintain it is something we value and will continue to seek out in the future. If you would like more information about this event or how you can support the Foundation, you can contact Gary Ostrowski at 630-719-6610. The township is proud to serve our communities.

Lori Wrzesinski is director of public relations for Downers Grove Township.