SALEM CEMETERY INQUIRIES

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As one of the most historic churches in Central Indiana and Boone County, Salem Methodist Church is blessed with a rich history and culture.

Often, this richness is experienced over time through active participation, and in the case of Salem Methodist Church, it is also surrounded by a very historic cemetery.  This cemetery, originated in the middle of the 19th century, is the final resting place for many American veterans who served in various wars.  These wars include:  The War of 1812, The Blackhawk Indian War, The American Civil War, The Spanish American War, World Wars I and II, and more recently wars like Vietnam.

Aerial shot of Salem Cemetery and Church

CEMETARY TOURS

One of Salem's members, Ben Pauley, thought it might be enjoyable to give the congregation a tour of their very own cemetery several years ago following the July 4th church service.  This tour visited a number of these historic resting places and shared brief anecdotes about the military conflicts and unit histories of the deceased veterans.  Over the last several years, this tour has evolved into selecting one individual who is buried in the cemetery on whom to focus during each tour.

In 2016, we visited the grave of Private James Elletts Holler.  Private Holler served in the 23rd North Carolina Infantry during the American Civil War.  Yes, that's right, Salem has a Confederate Soldier buried in its cemetery.  Briefly, Private Holler served with distinction and was ultimately wounded at the Battle of Cedar Creek, VA.  He ultimately was returned to service and surrendered to U.S. Grant at Appomattox Courthouse in 1865.  Sometime in the early 1900's Mr. Holler moved to Boone County and became a very successful farmer and a pillar of the community and of Salem Church where many of his direct decedents continue to attend.