The History and Mystery of the Carefree / Cave Creek Cemetery

the HISTORY & MYSTERY of the Carefree CEMETERY

Dear Reader, You might be wondering why on earth an editor would choose to cover any town’s cemetery, let alone an out-of-the-way little village with an easy-going name like Carefree, Arizona. However, one glance at the incredible photographs that came from this assignment and I think you’ll support my decision. The first mysterious detail is that it’s named the Cave Creek Cemetery although it’s located in the Town of Carefree. But these things happen as neighboring towns collaborate so we won’t be derailed by blurred borders and shared plots. A cemetery is a fascinating place that often tells the real story of a community. It harbors memories and history, wrapped in a delicate and emotional package that in this case just happens to be beautiful as well. This is the time of year that we memorialize those who have passed and at the same time, it is a season of blossoming. Here you will see the bittersweet dichotomy of lush overgrowth on timeworn headstones and the intimate tales they tell. It’s not often that you have an offbeat assignment such as this, much less a photographer who literally gasps with delight upon learning of the assignment. It seems odd to recommend a visit to a cemetery, but I believe the rich images from our staff photographer, Jennifer Agema, and her write-up that follows will tempt you to slow down, take a stroll and take a closer look at the hidden beauty of this restful corner of Carefree. ~Serena Webbe, editor

In the midst of our everyday life, there are places in plain view that may go unnoticed as we pass them by each day. That is, until you’re pointed in that direction and all of a sudden introduced to a special spot – in this case one of charm and reflection that is tucked away (though right along the major road) in a quaint area of Carefree, Arizona. It is a place of rest and honor – the Cave Creek Cemetery.

The Cave Creek Cemetery is an eclectic “pioneer cemetery” which is defined as a cemetery that is the burial place for pioneers spanning from the late 18th to early 20th centuries. Its history dates back to the original vision of longtime area resident, Elmer Gillespie, who was the first person to be buried on site in 1956. Prior to his death, Mr. Gillespie worked to secure the land from the U.S. National Forest Service and establish a place where the residents of the Cave Creek School District (Cave Creek, Carefree, and Scottsdale) could be buried and ensure that the natural Sonoran desertscape would be maintained. So much of the charm of this cemetery is the unique and creative headstones and plots adorned with personal relics that have been left by friends and family of those who have passed. Currently, less than half of the cemetery is occupied and trails continue to be cultivated by a local Eagle Scout to open up access to the natural surrounding areas. One will quickly notice that many veterans are buried here and are honored by the American Legion, and the local Scouts. The Town of Carefree also hosts an annual tribute during their Memorial Day program.

Carefree undoubtedly holds their local Veterans in high regard. The town’s heart of pride for our service men and women is notably shown in the town’s ongoing programs. For example, through multi-generational events involving young people and military men and women, the participants of the Veterans Heritage Project collaborate throughout the school year to create a book of experiential interviews that instill value and express gratitude.

This year marks the first Carefree Memorial Day program in the cemetery honoring local residents who have served our country and gone before us. The entire community is involved in this early morning, reflection-centered event. Participants include the Veterans Heritage Project, the Boy Scouts who post colors, and the Tribute Riders RC who place American flags on the 33 current veterans’ places of rest. Keynote Speaker, Captain Frank Lambert is a Vietnam War veteran who will share his experiences with those who gather on Memorial Day 2019.

CAREFREE MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM: 2nd Annual Memorial Day Program – Monday, May 27th 8am – 9am, at The Cave Creek Cemetery: 36541 North Pima Rd, Carefree, AZ 85262 | www.carefree.org

Described as a man who “cared more about his men than his orders,” Captain Lambert’s story of service is filled with bravery and sacrifice: dodging bullets, grenades and even a python, and ultimately being saved by Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Spayberry, his brother in battle.

Whether it’s a visit to the Cemetery for the special 2019 Memorial Day program, or any other day, it’s definitely worth the ‘pause’ to pay tribute. To simply take a quiet walk in this natural resting place is a lovely opportunity to experience gratitude, and honor those who lived before us.

~Story & Photography by Jennifer Agema

ArizonaKEYMagazine