The round tablet was preserved when the church was dismantled for safety reasons in 1962 and was later encased in cement and placed near the cemetery entrance. Inscribed - Land Donated by Andrew Ferguson

This postcard photo (circa 1900) shows Melrose Methodist Episcopal Church (later Melrose United when amalgamation occurred) and cemetery. The brick church was built in 1872, being about 60 feet north of the original frame structure, which was struck by a tornado in 1870, destroying the roof and walls. This church was demolished in 1962 when the highway was widened and the structure was considered unsafe due to 'quick sand' on the north side.
The lot for the church and cemetery was donated in the early 1820s by Andrew Ferguson Sr. and his wife, Janet Boston off a corner of their farm. The first recorded burial (stone still standing) was Elizabeth (Walters) Ashwell in Aug. 1825.
From the photo one can see the cemetery to the left. To the right of the church, next to the wall, is a tall monument. It no longer exists there. The area, formerly where the church was located, is green space. It has been said that many young babies and children died from an epidemic in the 1800s and they were interred on the right side of the church. No grave stones have been found there to verify this story.

From corner of Highway 22 and Vanneck

view from Vanneck near corner of hwy 22

Gate is on Vanneck Rd just off Highway 22 at the lights

View westbound Hwy 22 (Egremont Dr) and Vanneck Rd

This photo is taken from the northwest side of Melrose Cemetery, looking towards the northeast corner - the location of the entrance gate, which can be accessed from the corner of Vanneck and Egremont Roads.

This photo was taken in December 2008. I will replace this shot with a better one when opportunity permits.