Lake Shore Cemetery Dedication as Historic Landmark is May 19

The resting place of dozens of Avon Lake’s forefathers as well as numerous veterans will be dedicated as an Avon Lake Historic Landmark on May 19 at 1 p.m. at Lake Shore Cemetery (Avon Lake Cemetery.)

The city’s only cemetery is on the north side of Lake Road near the SR 83 intersection near Veterans Park. Headstones in the cemetery bear the names of founding families, many of whom have streets named after them in the city, such as Duff, Beck, Curtis, Herrmann, Walker, Jaycox (also Jacox) and Moore.

On Oct. 26, 2005, the cemetery was designated as a landmark by the Lorain County Historical Society. The new designation means an additional marker on the site as well as protections.

Councilman John Shondel, the former chairman of the Avon Lake Historic Preservation Commission, which designates local locations, said it is believed the cemetery was established in the early 1800s.

“It was established, perhaps as early as 1820, with the earliest recorded burial being of Edmund Towner of Ira, Vermont.” Shondel said.

Towner drowned off the shores of Lake Erie on June 8, 1822.

The site is the resting place of a Revolutionary War veteran, five veterans of the Union Army and five veterans of WWI. A plaque beneath the cemetery’s pergola bears the names of the city’s veterans.

The public is welcome to attend the event which will include comments by State Representative Matt Lundy. Light refreshments will be served.

“It gives residents a deeper sense of preservation and understanding of Avon Lake history,” Councilwoman Jennifer Fenderbosch said.

“This is truly a historic event,” Councilman David Kos said. “It’s a tremendous history lesson. I hope residents come out and show respect for our founders and veterans.”

The Peter Miller House was the first to receive the Avon Lake Historic Preservation Commission's designation.