Contracts and Deeds, 1853-1944

These records document the history of the Mayfield Cemetery Association from 1844-1966.  The society organized to improve and maintain a respectable burial site for deceased inhabitants of Mayfield, Illinois and surrounding communities.  Three burial record books comprise the major series of the collection and detail the name, age, nativity, burial date, and location of each set of remains placed in the lot.  In many instances, these record books contain overlapping information for the years 1844-1958.  Separate files of burial demits, contracts and deeds supplement the record books delineating the cause of death and plot fee payments.  A register of minutes, along with articles of incorporation and by-laws, records the decision of the Mayfield Association to organize in 1884.  The minutes also highlight the business concerns of the Association, such as lot maintenance, treasurer’s reports, officer elections, and burial procedures.