A crisp October morning brought us to fruition of a project more than a year in the making.
In 2021, looking towards a capstone project for the New Horizons course, I had a small idea of presenting a living history at a local cemetery. Often small ideas grow to big ones, and that was the case. I had approached the city of Shelbyville and the Shelby Co. Historical Society to host an event at the City Cemetery in downtown Shelbyville. But in a brainstorming session, VR and America 250! Chair Molly S. suggested that we use Round Hill Cemetery for our event. This would also allow the America 250! Committee to recognize Revolutionary War patriot John George. And our project was off and running.
Fast-forwarding to this fall, our chapter was able to present Round Hill Cemetery with signage from the Department of Natural Resources, denoting it as a Pioneer Cemetery.
A gathering of almost 50 guests and dignitaries descended upon Round Hill Cemetery. Welcomed by Samuel Bryan Chapter members – many dressed in period clothing, guests were able to participate in a multifaceted program. Regent Patti M. opened the program with greetings, and Chaplain Elaine R. led the group in prayer. Following the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and Americans’ Creed by Donita R. and Historian Jennifer L. respectively, Regent Patti M. introduced our distinguished guests. They included State Chair of America 250! Charlotte B., who also brought greetings.
The Pioneer Cemetery sign was unveiled by Megan L., and it will be mounted to the cemetery’s entrance gate by its caretaker. I was honored to present a brief – yet storied – history of Round Hill Cemetery. The cemetery was first used as a Methodist campground in the 1820s, and it quickly became home to many of Indianapolis’ south side founders. One of the most interesting stories was that of James Gentle. A Scottish immigrant, Mr. Gentle quickly established a reputation as a craftsman and builder. He was one of the contractors responsible for Indianapolis’ Union Station, and now he lies at the top of Round Hill.
The highlight of our program were the presentations of Patriots John George and Edward Hall. Dressed in costumes, DARlings Jon L. and Mike C. truly brought these patriots’ stories to life. Guests were intrigued to hear of Edward Hall’s experiences as a spy in George Washington’s service. And having examples of drum cadences by Jon L. as John George brought us closer to the feel of the battlefield. My personal favorite moment of the day was the flower presentation to Samuel Bryan Chapter member Sharon A., in honor of her ancestor John George. It was that small moment that moved me the most.
Wreaths were placed by Sammy’s Girls and guests at both patriots’ graves, and the crowd shared a responsive reading, highlighting our gratefulness to our forefathers. The cemetery event was closed out with a rifle volley and TAPS by the Greenwood Color Guard and by a benediction from Chaplain Elaine R.
Our reception committee sparkled brightly, led by Registrar Kim S. With soups donated by chapter members, guests were delighted to visit the “Funeral-Themed” tables. Each table focused on a specific tradition of funerals, such as gravestone meanings, flower choices, or jewelry made of the deceased’s hair. The conversations based on these details was quirky and amusing. We were also able to share the premiere of our “Stories in the Stones” video, that original small idea’s final evolution. Guests were enthralled by the tales presented and applauded enthusiastically at the conclusion. Our first-ever version of the Oscars, we presented the Sammy for Best Actor Performance to both Mike C. as Edward Hall and to Jon L. as John George.
My personal thanks go to everyone who made this event possible, especially to Recording Secretary Gina A., whose tech skills made our video look great, and to Jen & Eric E., whose photography skills continue to amaze and impress me. I am humbled to be a small part of what this team does. This day was a testament to what Sammy’s Girls can accomplish when we work together.
“Our Nation’s Capitol” bulletin board on display at Southport Intermediate School
Samuel Bryan Chapter’s newest bulletin board at Southgrove Intermediate School
