Much Of Old Cemetery In Lead In Disarray

Much of a century-old cemetery in Lead has fallen into disarray, with thick patches of weeds, half-toppled headstones, mossy concrete and deteriorated retaining walls.

West Lead Cemetery near the Homestake Mansion on U.S. Highway 14 has stood for more than a century, but some of its owners are having a hard time finding help to maintain it.

The cemetery's upper section is owned by the Masons, who regularly maintain their area.

The lower and southern portions are owned by the Odd Fellows, whose members are aging, and the Knights of Pythias, which has left South Dakota entirely.

City Commissioner Denise Parker was appointed to oversee city cemeteries. She says if the cemetery is not maintained, the city should step up.