The Lick Creek Cemetery Sign Dedication Project

The Beech Grove Historical Society and the Samuel Bryan, NSDAR dedicated a sign in the memory of the Beech Grove pioneer settlers interned in the historic cemetery listed in the Indiana Cemetery and Burial Grounds Registry on 1 June 2019 at Sarah Bolton Park near the Churchman Avenue entrance. In 1955, the inhabitants of the Lick Creek Baptist Church Cemetery were gone from sight forever when the cemetery was covered over and made into a park. The names were lost, the stories of their past forgotten. Three generations later, we will be remembering them again with a sign dedication that will forever etch the presence of these early pioneers of the City of Beech Grove.  Samuel Bryan Chapter Vice-regent Patti Moy brought the history of this forgotten parcel of land to the forefront for new generations to come by deciding to obtain recognition of the cemetery as her Capstone Project for the DAR’s Horizon’s program. In attendance was Beech Grove Mayor Dennis Buckley, State Organizing Secretary Rhonda Beck, Central District Director Stephanie Resler, American Legion Post #4 Commander Joe Fuller, Franklin Township Historical Society President Nancy Vanarendok, Richard Templin of the Beech Grove Historical Society, and Samuel Bryan Chapter Regent and State Register Peggy Bostic.  Pastor Phillip James of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church also attended.  After the Civil War ended, his church directly grew out of the Lick Creek Church. The American Legion served as Color Guard and provided rifle salute and Taps. By remembering the church, cemetery and the patriotic spirit of our early pioneering settlers we are fulfilling all of the goals of the National Society of the American Revolution of historic preservation, education, and patriotism. There was a light reception afterward at the south shelter following the dedication.  Many members of the Samuel Bryan Chapter donated several dozens of cookies with ice tea and lemonade.