Gravestone Discovery Unveils Hidden History of Kalamazoo

A recent government meeting highlighted the successful gravestone cleaning workshop held in Kalamazoo, which attracted around 80 participants, including local residents and visitors from as far as two and a half hours away. The event, organized in collaboration with Atlas Preservation, featured educational sessions on gravestone history, cleaning techniques, and repair practices. Participants not only engaged in hands-on cleaning but also learned about the historical significance of gravestones and the specific stone sources used in their construction.

The workshop was praised for its community involvement and the opportunity it provided to showcase Kalamazoo's historic sites. Local businesses contributed by providing lunch for attendees, further enhancing the community spirit of the event.

In a related development, city officials reported an unexpected discovery during water main replacement work at Southwest Niche Park, the site of Kalamazoo's first cemetery. Workers uncovered a gravestone dating back to 1838, belonging to Jonas Ashe, which was remarkably well-preserved. This find prompted immediate action to halt further digging, demonstrating the city's commitment to preserving its historical artifacts.

Research into Ashe's background revealed limited information, but it was noted that he likely originated from New England, a common area of settlement for early white settlers in Kalamazoo. The cemetery, which operated from 1833 until its closure in 1862 due to capacity issues, was eventually converted into a park by 1884, with many graves remaining undisturbed.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement in preserving local history and the ongoing efforts to maintain and honor Kalamazoo's historical sites.