CAMPBELL — Rocky Hill Cemetery in Campbell is more than a burial ground; it is a living link to Missouri’s past and a testament to the families who settled here two centuries ago.
Mary Lou Hill, a lifelong Campbell resident, is the volunteer caretaker of the cemetery, taking on the responsibility from her uncle, Bud Miller, when he passed away in 2006.
Hill describes the experience of walking through the cemetery grounds as, “Humbling, meditative, and spiritual.”
Rocky Hill is one of the oldest cemeteries west of the Mississippi River. Founded in 1851, the cemetery’s oldest grave marker is for a man named James Bray, who died in 1852.
The other markers were placed for those who lived during the nearly 170 years of history since.
Campbell grew out of pioneer settlements made on Crowley’s Ridge between Old Four Mile and the St. Francis River.
The cemetery is located near the site of the old Chalk Bluff Trail, which was used then by settlers moving west and passed through the early community, which would eventually become Campbell.
The trail led southwest across the St. Francis River at Chalk Bluff and on into Arkansas. People bought land and built homes near the trail.
During the Civil War, Union forces followed the trail intending to invade Arkansas. They encountered Confederate forces and fought a battle at Chalk Bluff.
Rocky Hill is still an active cemetery. Hill says that she sold six graves recently. Maintenance of the cemetery is supported through donations.
Anyone wishing to donate can send contributions to Mary Lou Hill, 36145 St. Hwy WW, Campbell, MO 63933.