The once silver-mining town of Caribou is home to the Caribou Cemetery, which rests on property owned by the Grand Island Mining Company. The town was named after the Caribou silver mine in the area. Though now a ghost town, locals refuse to allow the town’s history to be forgotten, including its cemetery.

During the winter of 2023, JulieAnnear, Silvia Pettem, and the Grand Island Mining Company started a discussion about the possible restoration of the “small and very neglected cemetery near the townsite of Caribou,” shares Pettem.

The non-profit Nederland Area Historical Society joined forces and began to oversee donations earmarked for the Caribou Cemetery restoration project. Due to the many years the cemetery had not been cared for, “none of the original stones remain.”

Pettem states, “The restoration project is a way to restore some respect and dignity to those buried there… as early as 1875.” On Sunday, August 13, 2023, Annear, Pettem, and several dozen residents of Boulder County and surrounding communities gathered to participate in the Caribou Cemetery “work day.”

At 10 a.m., volunteers and organizers assembled in the Nederland RTD parking lot to sign waivers, meet and greet, and receive instructions and details about the day’s goals. Some traveled by car, while others shared a shuttle bus to the site.

After a roughly 15-minute drive from the RTD parking lot to the cemetery, the group gathered for a safety briefing. Before noon, an estimated 40+ volunteers with tools, gloves, protective equipment, and rain gear were ready to work.

Volunteers dispersed in smaller groups to help with tree trimming, wood chipping, and general clean-up. Dead and downed trees were removed, making way for a perimeter fence to mark the cemetery.

The few still visible headstones were cleared of grass and other debris. Wildflowers were left in their place, adding to the beautiful history of the site. Part of the preservation efforts will help “map” the locations of where people are buried, as “all the stones were broken off at their bases.”

Lunch and water were provided for the volunteers, as well as coffee by Salto and snacks from the B&F Mountain Market. It was a great successful day for the Caribou Cemetery restoration project.

“Today’s ‘work day’ at the Caribou Cemetery was a huge success. The collaboration included Grand Island Resources, LLC, the Nederland Area Historical Society, and local concerned residents and contractors. The cemetery had suffered decades of neglect and abuse, but we accomplished a lot today. It’s extremely satisfying to have received the community’s support for this historical preservation project. Thanks to all,” expresses Pettem.

To learn more about the Caribou Cemetery restoration project or to make a donation, visit http://cariboucemetery.com/. For further information visit the Nederland Area Historical Society’s website: https://www.nederlandareahistoricalsociety.org/.