The historic Farmersville IOOF cemetery, one of the largest cemeteries in Collin County, will be getting its an­nual spring cleanup Monday, March 29 starting at 10 a.m.

The cemetery, which is run entirely by volunteers, is look­ing for additional volunteers to help with the cleanup. Cleanup will consist of picking up and discarding trash, faded flowers, wood, metal and glass objects, as well as anything that might hinder mowing and weed eat­ing. Families may want to bring cloths to clean and polish their headstones.

Rules and regulations are enforced at the cemetery. A copy of the rules may be found near the front door of the lodge building.

Several organizations includ­ing the Collin County Sheriff’s Department, VFW Post 7426, Boy Scout Troop 310, the Ro­tary Club and various churches and individuals have been help­ing with cleanup and other ac­tivities.

The cemetery consists of 25 acres and was established in 1899. Founding citizens of Farmersville are buried in the cemetery, along with confed­erate soldiers, WWI, WWII, Korean, and Vietnam soldiers, plus many friends, neighbors and loved ones.

The greatest expense for cemetery care is mowing, weed eating and spraying. Planned improvements include paving two streets, painting the cem­etery fence, replacing fallen trees, and landscaping the two main entrances. The funds for these expenses come from do­nations, memorials, and the sale of spaces.

Anyone wishing to donate, may mail his/her check to the IOOF Cemetery, P. O. Box 263, Farmersville, TX 75442. All donations are appreciated.

The IOOF Lodge and Cem­etery are located at 803 North Windom St.

For more stories like this, see the Mar. 25 issue or subscribe online.

From Staff Reports • [email protected]