San Bernardino Unites to Restore Historic Pioneer Cemetery
The City of San Bernardino, Rotary Club, Arrowhead United Way and Dameron Communications launch a major revitalization effort for the Pioneer Cemetery, a historic burial ground that has suffered years of vandalism and neglect.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The City of San Bernardino is joining forces with San Bernardino Rotary, Arrowhead United Way and Dameron Communications to restore Pioneer Cemetery, a historic burial ground that has suffered years of vandalism and neglect. Brass placards have been stolen for recycling, and monuments, some dating back hundreds of years, have been broken and scattered.
“This isn’t just about cleaning up a cemetery,” said Tawnya Rhoades-Hensley, president of San Bernardino Rotary, who is leading the effort. “It’s about honoring the history of our community.”
The restoration project grew out of the passion of Jenon Anderson, a retired resident whose family history is rooted in the cemetery. Anderson and Director of Parks and Recreation Vanessa Carter brought together local historians, the LDS Church, IECN and the Historical Society to form a coordinated team.
The cemetery holds the remains of some of San Bernardino’s most significant historical figures, including among the city’s first: Earp Family members, African American pioneers, military veterans, the Ralph’s grocery store family members, and Native American individuals whose remains have been officially confirmed.
To raise awareness and funds, organizers are hosting a community historical tour on Saturday, October 3, from 9:30 am to noon, featuring vintage automobiles, historical reenactments, remarks from San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran, and tours led by community members and the San Bernardino Historical Society.
Tickets are $20. Organizers are also seeking sponsors to support the restoration work. Top-tier sponsors will receive the honor of naming a street or section within the cemetery, while additional sponsorships are available for specific restoration projects, including monument repair.
“We’re asking the community to step up,” Hensley said. “Whether through ticket sales, sponsorships, or volunteering, there are many ways to be part of restoring this important piece of San Bernardino’s history.”
In recent years, theft and destruction at the cemetery have increased. Visitors have reported finding pieces of gravestones and monuments littered in surrounding areas, suggesting organized removal of materials for scrap value.
“Even a few weeks ago, I found what appeared to be part of an old headstone just lying on the side of the road,” said Hensley. “The deterioration and desecration have become impossible to ignore.”
The restoration effort aims to address both the physical damage and prevent future vandalism.
For more information about purchasing tickets or becoming a sponsor, community members are encouraged to contact San Bernardino Rotary at (951) 233-5070 or email Trhoadeshensley@gmail.com. The October 3 event promises to be a significant gathering celebrating the city’s diverse heritage.
“This is about bringing our community together,” Hensley emphasized. “We have an opportunity to honor the past while building a stronger present.”
About the Rotary Club of San Bernardino
The Rotary Club of San Bernardino is a community-focused organization dedicated to service in the Inland Empire. The club meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. at Elks Lodge #836 (2055 Elks Drive, San Bernardino, CA 92404). Community members are welcome to attend as guests.
Lunch is complimentary for prospective members; visiting Rotarians are $20. For more information, contact (951) 233-5070 or email Trhoadeshensley@gmail.com.
