Background
We are currently working on a Master Plan document which will be a template for the work we carry out over the next 5 - 10 years. The Master Plan covers both old and new cemeteries and will include everything from maintenance and upkeep items to major projects we would like to see happen. During its production, we will be seeking input from members, from the University of Toledo who will be critical to its progress and from other local organizations who we feel would have a valuable input.
Click here for a summary of the Master Plan.
Master Plan
Old Cemetery
A key part of the Master Plan is the work we would like to see done at the cemeteries to raise the profile of both the cemeteries and the Restoration Project as a whole. There are a number of projects we would like to undertake at the Old Cemetery with the intention of making it both more amenable as a place for contemplation and as a part of a number of UT curriculums.
There are five main parts to our plans for the Old Cemetery, as follows:
- Installation of a flagpole and solar powered light (Complete)
- Installation of panels displaying the names of all the people buried at the cemetery, located within a small garden to also contain the existing memorial
- Installation of an access road and parking area with rain garden or a permeable surface parking area
- Installation of a brick footpath between the parking area and garden and around the garden
- Relocation of boundary markers to be placed to draw people towards the memorial and kiosk
Other items such as seating and a footpath from the Old Cemetery to Swan Creek are also being considered.
Click here for the most recent rendition of the memorial panels
Click here for the layout of our proposed work at the Old Cemetery
Boundary markers
A task we are interested in fast-tracking is moving at least one boundary marker to the Old Cemetery. At present, there are five known boundary markers, taking the form of concrete posts which originally served as fence posts.
Through conversations with the City of Toledo, we would be allowed to relocate three of the five remaining posts, subject to agreement with the relevant property owners. The other two posts would have to remain where they are, but could be marked with bronze plaques noting their significance.
We are in the process of contacting the land owners and hope for confirmation from them in the near future. We also hope for assistance from the University of Toledo in relocating the three posts before the Memorial celebrations in May 2013.
TSHCRC is a grass roots organization that welcomes donations to support of our efforts to restore the State Hospital cemeteries. Tax deductible donations can be made to NAMI of Greater Toledo. For more details see our Donating page.