Antioch Church Cemetery Volunteer Clean-up, June 6th

Photo courtesy of Elena Vega.

Thank you to all the volunteers, including several members of the Genealogical Society of Boone County and Central Missouri, who participated in the Historic Cemetery Cleanup at the Antioch  Church Cemetery in John Alspaugh Park on June 6, 2026. We were all pleased to get to meet John Holley, the neighboring property owner who keeps the Antioch Cemetery mowed and tidy. 

Since the grounds of the Antioch Cemetery are not overrun with invasive honeysuckle we were able to focus on cleaning the cemetery stones. We sprayed the stones with the D2 cleaning solution recommended for cleaning without causing damage. We then used special soft bristle brushes to remove dirt, algae, and lichen that had accumulated over the years. 

As we worked, we were joined by Joel Haden who was driving by and noticed us working in the cemetery. He introduced himself as a descendant of Turner Richardson Haden. One very prominent stone commemorates husband and wife Turner R. Haden (August 13, 1808 - December 16, 1878) and Sallie Ann Haden (November 28, 1822 - December 12, 1895).   

We are grateful for the support from the City of Columbia’s Department of Parks & Recreation who provided a porta-john along with a hand cleaning station and trash bags. 

Don’t forget to check our website for other upcoming events and activities: https://www.comopreservation.org/events.

Photos of volunteers uncovering and cleaning headstone, courtesy of Elena Vega.

Photos: John Holley speaking with volunteers, Joel Haden speaking with volunteers, Turner R. Haden headstone. Photos courtesy of Elena Vega.

CoMo Preservation is devoted to helping homeowners, landlords, and institutions prevent the destruction of historic architecture. Original period styles might be replicated, but will forever lack the social history of authentic structures. The preservation of historic places and spaces gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by becoming a member, volunteering, signing up for our newsletterattending an event, ordonating.

Questions? Suggestions for speakers or events? Email CoMoPreservation@gmail.com