Grove Restoration Project

Volunteer

Over the years family members and people visiting the cemetery have always wondered why Batchelors Grove cemetery is not being taken care of. Is it because family members do not know who to turn to for help? Is it because of no funds? There are many reasons to this and that is why the Grove Restoration Project (GRP) was created.

Time and again, those who have been touched by the desecration and lack of respect for this most historical landmark have always wanted to see the cemetery return to its original condition. Unfortunately this can never be done. Way too many headstones are missing and the ones that have been recovered could probably never be returned for they would only end up missing again. So what can be done to help preserve what is left of the cemetery? Fortunately there are still options open to all of us. With the help of volunteers who donate their time and effort the cemetery can once again not only look pleasant but start to feel a little like it once did back in the days of horse and buggy. By mowing its grass, removing weeds and clearing the area of fallen trees, we can start to see Batchelors Grove cemetery for what it is and not just for the stories it gives us by its amazing reality of paranormal events.

Back in 1967 attempts were made by Clarence Fulton, the trustee of the cemetery at that time, Howard Fulton and Richard Kropack to preserve the cemetery by making it a Museum or a Shrine. Obviously the ideas were turned down, this was due to other interests in the community of Bremen Township. Then in 1976 it was handed down to the Cook County Real Estate Management Office and maintenance is to be shared through the Cook County Forest Preserve District. Although it has received an ordinary chain link fence to try and block entry to vandals it hasn’t done much good. But something had to be done and much more must take place if there is to be any real future for these “resting” pioneers of Chicago.

Now with the creation of a new team of volunteers and a different approach to bringing back the harmony of Batchelors Grove there is once again hope for a better future. It all starts with you, the person who cares enough to volunteer their time and effort, someone willing to come out and join in on the activities. If you wish to become a member of the GRP the first step is letting us know who you are.

All you need to do is simply email a coordinator and include your full name, age, address and phone number to keep on file. Once your information is received you will become a stand-by member and be notified of future clean-up dates. If you provide a cell phone number you will also receive text messages about specific dates of events as well. Additionally, after you come out and volunteer some hands-on effort your status as a stand-by member will be advanced to a volunteer.

Please note, while we encourage everyone of all ages to help out, if you are under the age of 18 you will need your legal guardian’s permission to volunteer. You will also need your legal guardian to be present to sign any liability waivers, or any other material deemed necessary. We are sorry for any inconvenience but we wish to keep the activities safe for everyone.

We are proud to announce that volunteers under the age of 18 can now join the restoration efforts without their legal gaurdian's permission. This policy change also offers easier access to all of the events for individuals looking for Community Service Credit Hours for High School. So if you or someone you know is looking for an exciting and relaxing way to complete those Credit Hours now is a great time to join us!