The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department and the Pioneers’ Cemetery Association will be honoring those who have died in the service of their country at a ceremony at 9:30 a.m. on May 26 at the city’s Pioneer & Military Memorial Park. The public is invited to wear their vintage clothing and join representatives from many of the valley’s historic societies who will be in period attire.
After the ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to tour the 107-year-old Smurthwaite House and the seven historic Phoenix cemeteries that make up the park. The cemeteries date back to 1884 and contain the burial sites of some of Arizona’s most notable figures including: John T. Alsap, Phoenix’s first mayor and Maricopa County’s first probate judge and Jacob Walz, the “Lost Dutchman” of Arizona folklore.
There will be fun historical activities for children and refreshments. Pioneer & Military Memorial Park, located at 14th Avenue and Jefferson Street, has been accepted to the National Register of Historic Places, the Nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation.
Memorial Day was established in 1868 as an official day to pay respect and honor those who had fought and died in America’s wars. For more information visit phoenix.gov/PARKS/pioneer.html or call 602-5262-5071.
