Directions: Beginning at the Franklin County Courthouse, located on the Public Square in Benton, Illinois, take Route 37 North 3.8 miles to Marcum Branch Road (left turn). Follow Marcum Branch Road 0.4 mile, and turn right on Gun Creek Trail for 1 mile. Turn left down the lane which leads to the cemetery. [Mapquest listing]

History: The cemetery originated with a donation of land from Jasper and Jane Cypher and Nancy E. and Isaac House on December 23, 1880. Jasper and Eunice Cypher donated additional land on April 23, 1926. The first known burial in the cemetery was in 1825. Records for burials were destroyed by fire several years ago. In addition, some of the markers have been destroyed by mowing or removed by vandals, especially in the older section. This listing was compiled from present monuments in the cemetery; interviews with relatives buried at Franklin, and published information.

We welcome comments, additions and corrections to this listing so that we have as accurate a written record as possible.
[Walk thru, transcription and photos completed by Donald and Ruth Ann Atkins, April 2006.]

Webpage completed by Ruth Ann and Don's Niece, Sharlene [Galloway-Tate] Alexander

Email me with Corrections, Additions, Information at the email address at bottom of this page

[Please See Note at the bottom of the Names Listing]

Notes: [1] Refers to a Listing in "Cemetery Inscriptions, Ewing Township, Franklin County, Illinois" published 1997 by the Frankfort Area Genealogy Society, 2000 E St Louis Street, P O Box 427, West Frankfort, IL 62696 that we were unable to currently locate; they are included to provide a more complete and updated set of records.

an 'A' in the Death Date = Living

The hours of walking, taking photos, transcription, and website coding are freely provided as our 'labors of love and to honor' all of those who settled Southern Illinois and made our own families possible. Additionally, it is our 'give-back' to all who so freely share geneological information as we each explore our family trees and cultural heritage. Thank You.