Our Mission: To Restore, Preserve, Document, and Safeguard our Cemetery and its History for Future Generations.
The Friends of Jacksonville’s Historic Cemetery is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization formed in October 2008. Our purpose then and now is to help the City of Jacksonville care for this Pioneer Cemetery, one of the oldest and largest in the state of Oregon.
The Cemetery opened in December 1859, and is the final resting place of many of the early Pioneer families that came west to Jacksonville and the Rogue River Valley. Their decision to come west, the hardships they endured, the sacrifices they made, and their contributions is what made Jacksonville’s history. Caring for the cemetery grounds and the grave sites of those who came before us is both a privilege and an honor.
In September 1993, John Leishman, a resident and former volunteer and supporter of the cemetery stated it best, “A cemetery tells the history of its people, and through its people, the history of its town.”
Volunteers provide enhancements, help clean and maintain the cemetery grounds, restore and preserve cemetery ornamentation, give tours, hosts events and programs to help educate the public on the importance of saving and protecting this historic site, a part of Jacksonville’s National Landmark Status.
If you are interested in joining us in our work, please contact us at info@friendsjvillecemetery.org or 541 826-9939. Donations help to support our restoration and preservation efforts and can be sent to FOJHC P.O. Box 1541 Jacksonville, OR 97530.