The daffodils, snowdrops and other spring flowers made an even earlier appearance this year by showing up and starting to bloom in mid-February. This is always a welcome sight as it marks the beginning of another year of programs, marker cleaning workshops, restoration work and cleaning up the grounds from winter.

Our replacement Interpretive Panels have all been received and will be placed throughout the cemetery grounds this month. The panels have been very popular with visitors since the originals were placed in 2004.

THIS EVENT IS NOW CANCELED—Marker Cleaning Workshop, Saturday, April 11, 9:00am-noon—Our first Marker Cleaning Workshop is now scheduled for Saturday, April 11 (originally April 18), starting at 9:00am until approximately noon, or whatever time you may be able to donate. Volunteers meet at the Sexton’s Tool House at the top of the Cemetery Road where you will find parking available. All the necessary tools and supplies will be provided. You may want to bring a stool to sit on and be sure to dress for the project as you may get a little wet and splattered with dirt.

History Saturday in the Cemetery, May 9, 10:00am—Returning in May, we have some interesting and fun programs scheduled for this year’s History Saturday in the Cemetery, now in our 10th year. The programs with a different topic being presented each month occur on the second Saturday of the month starting in May and running through September. Our May 9 talk is called “Comfort and Joy” and will focus on Jacksonville’s early Churches and their religious leaders, as well as the assistance and support members received from the local fraternal organizations. The program begins at 10:00am and includes a short walking tour to grave sites relating to the topic.

Cemetery, Community Clean-up Day, Friday, May 15, 8:00am-noon—FOJHC will be hosting a Community Clean-up Day of the cemetery grounds helping to prepare the cemetery for the Memorial Day Holiday. Clean-up work will begin 8:00am and continue until noon or whatever time you can afford to give us. Bring gloves to wear, leaf rakes, gas- operated weed eaters, blowers and lawn mowers. Coffee and morning refreshments will be provided along with our gratitude and appreciation.

Be sure to visit our website for complete details on these events and activities as well as all our plans for 2020, at friendsjvillecemetery.org.

Check friendsjvillecemetery.org for updates/event cancellation notifications.