MOUNT UNION CEMETERY ASSOCIATION

The Mount Union Cemetery Association is an all-volunteer group that actively works to preserve the rich history of the Mount Union Cemetery, founded in 1861, with by a black freed slave, Rueben Shipley. We honor the memory of Rueben's gift and the request behind it -that anyone of any color may be buried there -by maintaining the grounds, tending the graves (historical & present day), and ensuring that it's land-use purpose continues in an environmentally friendly way. The cemetery grounds sit on the border of Corvallis & Philomath cities in Benton County, Oregon, on Mount Union Ave, Philomath. Most volunteer on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9 am-12 noon, April through October, to cut the grass, trim back hedges, remove moss from gravestones, blow leaves, etc. All ages & abilities welcomed! Drop-ins welcomed! Saturday volunteers keep the grounds safe & beautiful for visitors that come to learn about the pioneers, take in the amazing views, mourn loved ones, or explore the historical grave markers. Our volunteer board also sells plots, arranges burials, maintains the cemetery's license and makes financial decisions for the cemetery. It is a great way to honor the history of Benton County, pay-it-forward, or simply meet some wonderful people! We are also actively seeking a volunteer to write grants, and one to find volunteer groups and organize volunteer days.