Exploring McHenry County's Cemetery Heritage: A Journey Through the Obenchain Books

 As the museum season begins and the air whispers history, our minds naturally drift to the traditions and rituals that connect us with our past. For many, one such tradition is the annual Cemetery Walks that grace McHenry County. These walks offer a poignant opportunity to wander among the silent cities, exploring the stories etched into weathered headstones and the legacies woven into the earth.

Sacred Heart Cemetery, Marengo (FindaGrave)

Here at the Research Center, the discussion of this year's Cemetery Walks has sparked a renewed interest in the wealth of information we hold within the hallowed pages of the Obenchain books. Named after Elaine Obenchain, these four volumes stand as a testament to the dedication of the McHenry County Illinois Genealogical Society to preserving the memory of our ancestors. Through meticulous research, sketches, plot records, and summaries, Elaine Obenchain and her collaborators have crafted a comprehensive guide to the cemeteries that dot our landscape.

Are you seeking to reconnect with a long-lost relative but find yourself only recalling the name of the cemetery where they rest? Fear not, for the Obenchain books will guide you on your quest. Each plot is meticulously sketched, with associated burials meticulously recorded, ensuring no memory is lost.

MCHS Collection

Perhaps you, like our latest research request, find yourself drawn to the mysterious allure of an abandoned cemetery across the street from your home. In such moments of curiosity, the Obenchain books serve as a beacon of knowledge, shedding light on the forgotten stories beneath the overgrown brush and crumbling headstones.

Or maybe a solitary name etched in stone captured your imagination, sparking a desire to uncover the tales of the past. In such instances, our Biography Files stand ready to unveil the lives and legacies of those who came before us, offering glimpses into the rich tapestry of McHenry County's history.

Yet, as we embark on our journey of discovery, let us not forget the fragile nature of these sacred spaces. Many abandoned and neglected cemeteries face an uncertain future, their histories slowly fading into obscurity. Here, local societies, such as the Linn-Hebron Cemetery Association, emerge as guardians of our heritage, tirelessly working to preserve these sanctuaries for generations, but they need your help.

So, whether you seek to walk among the shadows of the past or to unravel the mysteries of a forgotten cemetery, we invite you to join us on this journey through McHenry County's cemetery heritage. Submit a research request, schedule an appointment at the Research Center, or explore the endeavors of local cemetery societies. Together, let us honor the memory of those who came before us and ensure that their stories endure for all time.

If you'd like to join in on a Cemetery Walk, please follow the link: MCHS Events.