GALENA CEMETERY

In January, 2006 we received the following history of the cemetery from Eunice Prier Opfer.  According to her Allen Thomas Prier who is buried in Galena Cemetery came to Galena after serving in the Civil War.  He brought with him his family and his wife's parents. He operated a grocery, hotel and bought land within the city.  His daughter Hannah Massey died in childbirth. Hannah had twins and one lived, Laura Massey.  Allen donated the cemetery and Hannah was buried there.  Her stone reads "Erected by her father".  Allen Prier was a simple and gentle man. He fought for his country as his grandfathers had done in the Revolutionary War. Allen grieved the loss of Hannah and he gave the land to anyone who would wish to be buried there free of charge.  He fell upon hard times. The big white house was then auctioned off and the Short family bought it. His sons and widow moved into the hills on a small farm.  According to Eunice, "I visit the cemetery where he rests along with my other family members.  I doubt anyone realizes the cemetery is there because of the grief  this old Civil War veteran had for his dear, dear, Hannah and the dead twin baby buried with her."