Caring for Riverside Cemetery … yesterday & today

Submitted by Ann Lemna
Keep Noblesville Beautiful

Editor’s note: The first part of this story was published Sept. 16, 2025. Click here to read that story.

A dedication ceremony took place at Riverside Cemetery on Aug. 11 to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the cemetery and the first burial at the site. A newly installed monument and reflection garden now awaits visitors in the southwest section of the cemetery next to the river.

Lawrence Willison, a noted soldier under George Washington who fought in the Battle of Yorktown is reported to be the first burial at Riverside. He died in a log cabin on Polk Street at the approximate age of 80 in 1825.

Pam Bollier, Vice Regent of Horseshoe Prairie Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution read the story of his burial in an article by Jonathan Colborn. Members of the community were also joined by Mayor Chris Jensen and representatives from Keep Noblesville Beautiful, Noblesville Street Department, City Clerk’s Office, Board of Public Works and Safety and Hamilton County Master Gardeners Association.

Master Gardener Allison Buriff gave a tour of the garden and explained that she and fellow Master Gardener Carla Robinson chose plants for the garden based on their patriotic colors and historical references. Many of the plants were once used for medicinal purposes, teas, and dyes and most of the plants are regional or local natives.

The monument commemorates 200 years since the cemetery’s establishment as well as the first burial. (Photo provided)

Buriff shared that New Jersey Tea, which served as a tea substitute during the Revolutionary War, sets the backdrop of the garden with its large white blooms in early spring. The golden Black-eyed Susan symbolizes Justice and Resilience. Blue False Indigo symbolizes Endurance. The coneflower in reds and whites symbolizes Strength and Healing. Even the milkweed, which plays host to the monarch caterpillars, has a special meaning of Remembrance. Red and white peonies were also incorporated into the garden including the stunning Miss America variety. Several varieties of phlox are spread throughout the garden and symbolize Unity.

Buriff ended her tour by saying she hopes the community will enjoy spending time in nature and take time to reflect on the history and beauty that surrounds this new monument. Shortly after the dedication ceremony, historic flood waters covered the cemetery. Most of the plants made it through the storm unharmed and the reflection garden is ready for visitors once again.