The dedication ceremony was held at the Old Cemetery for the unveiling of a granite memorial on Saturday May 15, 2010. There were over 130 people in attendance. There was a 90 minute program with speakers including City of Toledo Mayor Mike Bell, Aaron Baker from Government Relations at University of Toledo and Terry Smith, CEO of Northwest Ohio Psychiatric Hospital. The Toledo Catholic War Veterans Logsdon-Walla Post 639 provided the color guard.

A motorcycle escort between the two cemeteries was provided by the Patriot Guard Riders.

The inscription on the memorial for the old cemetery reads as follows:

2010 Memorial Dedication Ceremony

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TOLEDO STATE HOSPITAL OLD CEMETERY

1888-1922

In memory of those persons
whose lives were challenged by mental illness and physical disability
during a time when these conditions were largely misunderstood and
treatments were in their infancy and mostly unexplored.

May we always remember your struggle and your strength, and
may your peace now be eternal.
 

A copy of the program is available to download here.

Read Naki Akrobettoe’s poem “Resurrecting Voice”

Read Mayor Bell’s Proclamation

Read Ohio Historical Society Marker Recognition Certificates

Watch 13 ABC coverage of the event.

View both sides of the Old Cemetery OHS Markers

View both sides of the New Cemetery OHS Markers

View photographs of the Dedication Ceremony and Old Cemetery OHS Marker unveiling.

View photographs of the New Cemetery OHS Marker unveiling.

Beyond well done - The events of May 15, 2010 were extraordinary. I am amazed at what you have accomplished in the short time since committee inception. Your plans for the future are equally impressive and given your track record very achievable. I congratulate each of you for your passion and achievement. Thank you for making a significant and positive difference in restoring dignity and honor to the approximately 2000 persons buried in the two hospital cemeteries. Overcoming the negative is both the price of achievement and greatness. You have realized both.

Terry Smith, CEO of Northwest Ohio Psychiatric Hospital.