By Joan Zimmerman
Among the many cemeteries gracing rural Missouri is Pilot Grove #2 located several miles northwest of Jamesport, surrounded by a grove of old oak trees to the west and rolling pastureland to the north and east.
Strolling among headstones dating back to 1918, the serenity of this place makes one want to linger, and if you’re lucky, you may even see deer grazing or hear the “bob white” of quail to the north.
Pilot Grove #2 and the original Pilot Grove cemetery, Pilot Grove #1, have been extremely important to the area. Both cemeteries continued the names of the Baptist churches that stood with them but are now long gone.
Pilot Grove Baptist Church and its cemetery (now Pilot Grove #1) dates back to 1845 and grew tremendously when the war between the states was over. Families came to Missouri where there was new land and opportunities.
In 1886, a group of 37 members from Pilot Grove decided to organize and build a new church about two miles south on land donated by George Bear. It was named Pilot Grove #2, and in 1916, the land north of Pilot Grove #2 was purchased from W.S. and Joanna Croy for the cemetery where many of the church members are now buried.
Several years back, a shelter was erected where Pilot Grove #2 church stood. It provides a restful place to sit and a large granite tablet that tells the complete story of both churches.
Today, both cemeteries are under the care of a board of trustees to make sure the cemeteries are maintained and continue for future generations.
A half acre was just purchased which extends Pilot Grove #2 to the north providing approximately 30 more burial plots.
Unlike big city cemeteries that are funded through expensive grave plots, funeral packages, and healthy endowments, most rural cemeteries rely on donations and the occasional endowment to cover the expense of mowing, fertilizing, upkeep of fencing, and the procurement of more land as the need grows.
The board is always delighted to welcome new members and grateful to receive contributions, particularly from families who have loved ones buried there.
Should you wish to become involved, make a contribution, or purchase a plot, please contact Pam Howard at 512 S. Willow St, Gallatin, MO 64640.
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