Rededication of Old Ossian Cemetery

The Old Ossian Cemetery was recently rededicated after a major restoration project which started in February of 2022. Thanks to the help of numerous donors and volunteers, the cemetery was completed with a community rededication on Saturday, May 18, 2024.

View of some of the headstones at Old Ossian Cemetery

One of the unique headstones.

This sign appears near the entrance to illustrate how the cemetery appeared in 2022 before restoration.

Master of Cermonies, Steve Heckber along with Baird Hatfield who played Amazing Grace, the Haunting and Taps with his bagpipes.

Megan and Jayson Poeppel led the audience in singing of the The Star-Spangled Banner, God Bless America and Battle Hymn of the Republic

Invocation was given by Pastor Andrew Morton of the Ossian Presbyterian Church.

Keynote speaker was Indiana State Representative, Matt Lehman who is a Civil War Reenator himself.

Comments and a wreath laying ceremony by Jonathan Swarts, Commander of the Indiana Commandery, Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States. (MOLLUS)

Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) who was led by Tim Beckman carried out three musket volleys to honor the event.

Brian and Allen Steffen from the Monument Center in Bluffton were instrumental in professionally guiding the restoration committee in choosing and obtaining the beautiful monuments to enhance the restoration of the cemetery.

Many donors and volunteers were responsible for the completing the restoration. The Jefferson Township Board, David Haiflich, Andrew Springer, Tim Baker and Trustee Larry Heckber were responsible for appropriating funds necessary to complete the project. Restoration began in February of 2022 and was completed in November 2023. TheOld Ossian Cemetery Restoration board included: Kristina Dohrman, Jerri Lehman, Dave Heckber and Larry Heckber.