Shady Rest Cemetery

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Burials from 1909 - 1970

Approximate Address:

832 S. Quarterline Rc.

Muskegon, MI 49442

Managed by Muskegon County

231-724-6416

Sec. 22, T10N, R16W

Shady Rest Map

History

Although the records start about 1905, the cemetery was there for some time.  The early records were constructed when stones were placed on all the graves.  It has not been used since 1969.  The care is minimal, but here and there you see flowers by a stone.

The “Poor House” as it was called in the late 1800’s was a place of last resort.  When no one cared you turned to the county.  Few records are available to describe the home beyond the costs to support and care for the poor.  In 1885 there were 35 people living in the Poor House.  The accounts list the things provided, food, clothing, fuel, medicine and funeral expenses.  There was stock purchased as this was a working farm. There was the keepers salary, outside labor for the home and farm and an engineer’s salary.  They raised much of their food even selling a bit.

They were quite proud of building in 1883.  The place was considered abouve average for convenience and comfort although it was noted that a bath tub is a great necessity.

In 1885 the number of paupers was seven with five males and 2 females.  Of these, one was insane and one was idiotic!  It was noted that a German girl living there was evidently of feeble mind or partially insane and for her moral safety would be put in a proper charge when she left.

Many children are buried there as were the very old and feeble.  A few unknowns are registered.  It is a sad and lonely cemetery.

List updated 2012. For photos go to www.findagrave.com.