Chesterton Cemetery Manager Chery Bachman appreciates the invaluable contribution of volunteers in removing tree debris from the August 11 derecho. She describes the efforts as “priceless” and emphasizes the importance of community involvement. “Some have been here every day,” she noted.
On September 10, 2026, volunteers, including members from the Daughters of the American Revolution’s (DAR) William Henry Harrison chapter, gathered at the cemetery to tackle the storm damage. People like John Goodloe carried branches for disposal, while the group engaged in activities like raking leaves and hauling branches to help spruce up the cemetery.
Sherry Taylor, the chapter regent, found their work rewarding especially in the cemetery’s historic section. “It needs our attention,” she stressed. Her husband, Mike Taylor, used a chainsaw on a large fallen maple tree. It had rested on a headstone and caused significant damage. Mike remained careful not to further damage other markers while working around the heavy tree trunk.
Other volunteers echoed similar sentiments. Diane Schweitzer, a past regent, shared her personal connection. “I have lots of family here,” she said, highlighting the meaningfulness of their efforts.
The DAR invests significant time in historic preservation efforts, often undertaking cemetery cleaning and tombstone upkeep as part of their volunteer work. “Historic preservation is one of our pillars,” Sherry Taylor mentioned, admiring the beauty of the historic cemetery which dates back to 1838.
John Goodloe pointed out the significance of older, unmarked graves in the cemetery. “My parents and grandparents are buried here,” he said, contemplating ways to locate and mark additional graves, possibly using a 3-D printer for creating markers.
On the day of clean-up, Cheryl Bachman also joined in, blowing leaves from gravesites. Despite the progress, she noted that clearing debris remained the top priority. “There’s weeks’ worth of work left out here,” Sherry Taylor estimated. Overgrown leaves had become habitats for mosquitoes and other insects, adding challenges to the cleanup efforts.
Bachman recounted the storm’s dramatic impact, recalling how three trees fell on the building where she sheltered. “It’s like dominoes falling,” she said. Yet, she gratefully noted, no injuries occurred. Cleanup has been ongoing, and the community remains focused on restoring the cemetery.
Freelancer Doug Ross reported this story for the Post-Tribune.
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