Upon learning several years ago of the severe ongoing vandalism problem at the burial place of so many Gerkings and other family members, the Gerking Family Association began donating money each year to help with restoration and protection. Following the 1996 reunion I traveled to Eastern Oregon to do genealogical research and while there visited Blue Mountain Cemetery. This is a picture as it looked then.
Note the toppled gravestones, now surrounded and protected by a new chain link fence thanks in part to the Gerking Family’s help. The pile of brush to the right is part of the cleanup effort.
The cemetery lies between Athena and Weston, surrounded by wheat fields on all sides. A narrow, dusty (at least in August) dirt road leads to the cemetery.
A great page about the old Kees Cemetery, along with
a list of those buried there, has been created by Weston resident Bob Gilliland.
To take a peek, click here and follow
the link on the left side of the page. You'll also be able to read about
the restoration efforts that have been made.
Please use the back button on your browser to return to the previous
page.