Early this week, the Jackson Rancheria park restoration crew began the initial cleanup efforts at the Catholic Cemetery in Jackson.   Work began on Monday and will continue through winter until completion.  It is important to clarify that our restoration efforts will be focused on the surrounding areas only and will not include grave sites.  Work will be done carefully with utmost respect so not to disrupt the graves of those laid to rest.  As always, we will practice our Native American tradition of smudging each worker with sage in a daily effort to rid them of negative energy; requesting permission from the great spirits as we proceed.

Now is a great time for those residents of Amador County who have family buried at the Catholic Cemetery to join us in rejuvenating the area by cleaning up your family’s private plot.  We will supply each of you with lunch, beverages, gloves and the tools needed to do the job.   If you are unable to join us in these efforts, we would be honored to do the work for you; with written permission allowing us to do so.

The Catholic Cemetery is very dear to the Jackson Rancheria Band of Miwuk Indians as many members of our Tribe including myself, have family buried here as well.  My brothers and I were raised and baptized in the Catholic Church, each of us serving as altar boys for many years.  We attended Catechism faithfully and received our confirmations. Many years later, my wife Janet and I were married in the Catholic Church here in Jackson as well.  Clearly, this project is special to us, as I’m sure it will be to many of you as well.

Weather permitting; crews will be onsite working at the Catholic Cemetery Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. We look forward to working side by side with the families of those who rest here in final peace.

Please call the park restoration committee at (209) 223-8405 with questions or comments.

Posted by TSPN TV