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Community Rebuilds Burge Cemetery one year after tornado devastation
Volunteers, donors, and local builders came together to restore Burge Cemetery just one year after a tornado left it in ruins.
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NEW LONDON — One year after an EF2 tornado tore through Henry County, the Burge Cemetery near New London stands restored, a testament to the resilience and unity of the community.
On April 16, 2024, the tornado, with estimated winds of 130 mph, caused widespread devastation across southeast Iowa. The National Weather Service reported that the storm's 42-mile path inflicted significant damage, including the destruction of homes and outbuildings in Henry County. At Burge Cemetery, the storm toppled 344 headstones, destroyed 21 trees, and obliterated the maintenance shed and flagpole.
Despite the devastation, hope hung over the community not only in a tangible outpouring of physical assistance, but also in the vision of a rainbow stretched overhead promising better days to come.
In the immediate aftermath, volunteers from New London, Danville, and Winfield-Mt. Union school districts helped with cleanup efforts.
“Their dedication and hard work have made a significant difference,” Jesse Howard, president of the Burge Cemetery Association said.
Over the past year, community support has been instrumental in restoring the historic cemetery, which dates back to 1838. Donations and volunteer labor enabled the resetting of all toppled headstones and the restoration of 30 markers from the 1800s. Volunteers also cleaned 40 older headstones to bring out their original inscriptions. A new shed now stands sturdier and larger than its predecessor, and 16 new trees line the cemetery grounds.
Howard praised the contributions from local businesses.
“A heartfelt thanks goes out to Ryan Barton and Jim Barton Construction for stepping up and generously donating a new flagpole for our cemetery,” he said.
The new flagpole, part of a veterans’ memorial set to be completed by the end of April, stands near a newly paved road built to improve accessibility in the northeast section.
“Our team has also GPS-located 91% of all memorials to help future generations pay their respects more easily,” Howard added.
Howard confirmed that the restoration is now complete, thanks to an outpouring of help.
“Your donations, prayers, and encouragement have been vital in helping us restore Burge Cemetery’s beauty,” he said. “We couldn’t have done this without your unwavering support.”
As Burge Cemetery nears its 187th anniversary, Howard and the Burge Cemetery Association say they’re focused on the future — maintaining the grounds, honoring the past, and ensuring the site remains a serene final resting place for generations to come.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
