October 25th (Part II)

There are several cemeteries near Perryton.  Ochiltree Cemetery was plotted in 1902 by Jim McLarty and J. V. Stump.  It is located 9 miles south of town on State Highway 70.  According to the information available Jim was thrown from a horse not long after they finished the job and became the first interred at the age of 21.  When Ochiltree picked up and moved they left the cemetery and a few scattered families and buildings.  The only building that remains standing at this date is the schoolhouse visible from the highway just north of the cemetery.  During the Great Depression  an entry gate was built by the WPA.  The cemetery encompasses 90 acres that include a semi seasonal stream and sometimes a small pond.  The Infant's section is first viewed entering the cemetery along its winding lane followed by the Family section which has three paved lanes seperating sections and an outer surrounding loop.  It even has trees; which for this area of the plains is saying something.  Living donations made by the families of the deceased have added beauty to this windswept oasis.  It is tidy and well maintained.  As far as I am aware there have been very few events of vandalism and it takes only a phone call to have someone come out and fix a tilted headstone or the occasional intrusion of an animal burrow.  I know that before the advent of the organised cemetery burials often took place somewhere on the family's "Home Place".  Before the area was settled you were most likely buried where you lay or left to the elements.  

Other cemeteries that are nearby are: Bethany, Bethel, Blue Mound, Black, Heart, and Kirby.  I will find more information about these for future articles. 

If you are interested in the early days of Ochiltee County please vist the Perryton Chamber of Commerce or the Museum of the Plains websites.