Along the outskirts of town on East 10th
Street Vinton, Iowa lays a community of its own.
Walking along the gravel path that Evergreen Trees
line together like lace, the sight of younger porcine
edged stones fill the front of the property,
transitioning to chipped and weathered as you
travel back, and during holidays the Nation’s flag
are lined up next to them. Older trees creak as
whistles of winds seep through, birds are heard singing, recognizable elements may be a skeletal
witch that looks like It’s carved of wood, a guardian angel that the back path. Baby lands one
and two are sad reminders of what lives could have been, including two baby cradles. Near the
middle rests a pebble basket, not far before it, a birdbath. The rear towers a soldier who watches
the grounds. This is what a typical day can be like when residents greet their loved ones.
Sometimes it takes a tragedy to get the public’s attention to the beauty of the darkest of
places. On the weekend of September 14, 2014, vandalism occurs, damaging a total of twenty-two stones, even crushing some to bits. This upsets a lot of locals, including myself. “Those that
did it should have to apologize to the families. Also, pay to have the stones fixed and jail time,”
states Ron Lamphier — Of Vinton. Jason White also speaks his mind. “Cowards and losers who
would do such a thing need to be punished.” These comments show that negative events have made
the public more aware of what they have.
Erin Meeker — -Of Vinton, makes a generous comment. “I think the vandalism helped
remind people about the importance of having a place like Evergreen. I always found Evergreen
to be a place of peace and I was more interested in looking at the old stones and learning the
history of my community. That cemetery makes me sad, but at the same time it’s a place for me
to connect to and remember them.”
Not just a place to remember loved ones. It’s a chance to get an insight into
our curiosity of history and relaxation. Eric Upmeyere — of Vinton shares his inspiration. “My
favorite parts are the oldest — looking at the names and dates. And even more — the Civil War
memorial. To think of what life was like them at the time. Their hard work and sacrifices to
make it better and easier for us.” The statue of the Civil War soldier is a helpful reminder of
what those men and what others are doing now, especially during memorial holidays when flags
stand next to the stones.
Along with getting a history lesson, many locals go here just to enjoy the day. “It is very
calming to walk through,” April Seitz comments. Ron would agree as he states, “one of my
daughters likes to draw up there.” If visitors are there to remember loved ones, learn a little
history, or just to enjoy the space, Evergreen Cemetery is always welcome to fulfill their
satisfaction. If the community keeps taking care of all of Iowa’s cemeteries then everyone can
enjoy the things that they love to see on their own.