The OSCA Veteran's Memorial

(ADDITIONAL PHOTOS BELOW)

In 2008, the Old Saltillo Cemetery received a bequest from the estate of Rev. Woodrow Kirby, who had pastored the Old Saltillo United Methodist Church for a many years.   In fact, the Old Saltillo Cemetery was one of several non-profit organizations, including churches and cemeteries, which received funds from the Kirby estate.  Upon receipt of funds, the Old Saltillo Cemetery Board of Directors worked diligently and thoughtfully to identify a use (or multiple uses) befitting the generous bequest.  It was ultimately determined that two significant projects would be undertaken to improve the cemetery grounds and preserve its history. 

A new fence was erected to replace an aged chain-link fence bordering the west side of the cemetery, complete with new gates and arches.  The black powder-coated fence significantly improved the aesthetics of the cemetery and ultimately influenced other area cemeteries to invest similarly in the beauty and infrastructure of their cemeteries.

The second project made possible by the Kirby estate bequest is a dual-monument memorial, located due east of the main cemetery gate and arch, in what is referred to as the ‘new part’ of the cemetery: 

The ’In Memory’ monument bears the names of individuals known to have been buried in the old Saltillo Cemetery, but whose actual gravesites are unknown and thus unmarked.   Thirty-three names were inscribed at the time the monument was erected, although names have subsequently been identified and added to the monument. 

The ‘In Honor’ monument honors the individuals buried in the Old Saltillo Cemetery and known to have served in the Confederate Army or any branch of the United States Armed Forces.  Names were inscribed at the time the monument was erected, the monument is updated as military servicemen are laid to rest in the Old Saltillo Cemetery and/or as research identifies previous interments of military servicemen.   To request a name be added will documentation, please fill out THIS FORM and submit.

Both monuments are constructed of black granite slabs and bases, mounted on a 8 X 12 concrete foundation and are complemented by a black granite vase and a black granite bench bearing the inscription, “Every man’s life is a plan of God”, honoring Rev. Woodrow Kirby for his service to the Old Saltillo community.