Preserve Kiser Ancestral Cemeteries with The Trustees

Hi folks, I'm Rick Hyman and a member of the Kiser Board of Trustees as such I am establishing this fund to assist in the upkeep of the Lawrence Kiser/Huffstetler Ancestral Cemetery and also the maintenance of the Larking Kiser Cemetery both located in Gaston County, NC. The Kiser/Huffstetler ancestral cemetery was established in 1786 with the first burial of Pioneer Lawrence Kiser followed by his wife Sarah in 1800. There are currently approximately 45-80 family members interred at this site. In 2019 we conducted a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey of this site and have determined that there are many unmarked burials that we are trying to provide markers for. Plans are in progress to also employ a Lidar Survey to better determine the location of any structures surrounding this site which was a land grant from the King of England in April 1761. The Kiser/Huffstetler Ancestral Cemetery is a registered historical site with the State of North Carolina.

The primary purpose of this fund is to pay for the removal of two huge trees, one of which has already fallen across the back side of the Lawrence Kiser cemetery and another at the entrance that was struck by lightning and is dying as we speak. The center is already hollow and according to the professional tree removal service is due to fall in any upcoming strong weather system. This particular tree will certainly fall across the front of the cemetery damaging a large portion of grave markers dating from the early days of this cemetery. We have already contacted a contractor who will remove both trees. All assistance in helping our Trustees preserve this part of our family heritage is most appreciated. All remaining funds following the tree removal will be used for maintenance and preservation. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, for the two Kiser family cemeteries mentioned, We Thank You.