Sixty members of the Historic Riverside Cemetery Conservancy were treated to a reception and lecture in the elegant, spacious Macon Public Mausoleum, graciously decorated in a tropical theme with Turkish rugs, potted palms, and flowers. Their palates were tantalized with shrimp and scallop ceviche, tropical fruits, a variety of homemade finger sandwiches, sausage balls, Becky (Bowdre) Cookies and grilled chicken wings (courtesy of maintenance crew member Bernard Lamb). A signature cocktail, the Screeching Parrot, designed by Andrea Miller, mixologist at Lemongrass Thai Bistro, was a fruity and festive aperitif. ("Did you say Screeching Parent?" slyly exclaimed Riverside Cemetery Board member Bert Maxwell.)

Author Rick Hutto gave a fascinating presentation about Chester Burge.  Hutto's book about the Burge family, A Peculiar Tribe of People-Murder and Madness in the Heart of Georgia, will be released by Lyons Press in the fall.

The Conservancy's main objective is to develop programs that educate the public, beautify the cemetery grounds, preserve the cemetery's historic relevance to modern culture, and ensure the continuation of extensive cemetery records. In addition, the Foundation builds endowments to secure the long-term stability of the cemetery. We received a 501 (C) 3 non-profit designation from the IRS in December of 2005. All donations are tax deductible.

Several projects are currently underway to bring the history of Riverside Cemetery to the community. The Ocmulgee Heritage River Walk will also be extending its path across the river to give people the opportunity to visit the cemetery while still exercising! There are plenty of activities available for you here at Riverside Cemetery, and we would love for you to come and be a part of them!