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Avon commission to submit Ohio Historical Marker application for Avon Center Cemetery
Summary
The commission will submit an application by April 25 seeking an Ohio Historical Marker for Avon Center Cemetery, citing its geological rarity as a naturally formed dune, early artifact finds and burials including Avon founder Wilbur Cahoon; parcel size and research sources were presented.
At the April 8 meeting the Avon Landmarks Preservation Commission approved submission of a revised Statement of Significance to the Ohio Historical Markers Program seeking formal recognition for the Avon Center Cemetery.
"The Avon Center Cemetery is a naturally formed dune which is a geologically unique and rare landmark," Theresa Szippl told commissioners as she read the statement of significance and explained geologic analysis by Dr. Charles E. Herdendorf III that dates the sand deposit to glacial Lake Warren shoreline processes roughly 12,500 years ago. Szippl said the parcel is recorded in Lorain County Auditor records as permanent parcel 0400-015-110-310 and listed its size as 1.9100 acres.
Szippl described early finds reported at the site, including skulls, beads and arrowheads noted in historical accounts, and reviewed notable interments: Lydia M. Williams (died Jan. 11, 1818) and Avon founder Wilbur Cahoon. She said veterans from five wars are buried there and that the cemetery is officially closed for new burials except for a small Potter’s Field; it remains open for visitation from dawn to dusk.
Commissioners complimented the application and confirmed the Commission would submit the revised statement and supporting documents on April 25. Chair Cynthia Murnyack-Czarnecki and Szippl noted they had revised the application to emphasize the cemetery’s geologic significance while retaining its historical context and said they appreciate research assistance from Dr. Herdendorf.
