Camp Polk Cemetery Oregon

Camp Polk Cemetery—also known as the Hindman Cemetery, for the family who settled there after the camp closed—is approximately three miles northeast of the town of Sisters Oregon. Camp Polk was a Civil War-era military post that existed on adjacent land. It was named by the volunteers who were assigned there, most of whom were residents of Polk County.

The cemetery was established when the growing number of white settlers in the area needed a proper place to bury their dead. In 1880, the Hindman family set aside a portion of their homestead for that purpose. Although the cemetery was not associated with the military post, the name Camp Polk prevailed. The post office established by the Hindmans on their property bore the name Camp Polk and was recognized by both local residents and travelers.

Over 170 graves are in the cemetery, although it is likely that other, unmarked graves exist here as well. Nine commemorative markers recognize individuals who are believed to be buried at the site, although their graves have not been located.

The oldest known grave is that of Thomas Summers, who died on July 8, 1880. No one seemed to know who he was. Another unusual grave is that of Robert Krug (1849 - 1919) with the inscription on the headstone written Robert Krug (1849-1919): “Murdered by A.J. Weston.”

For all of you who do Geocaching this one is for you

This area gave me a lot of bad energy!!

A stroll through the cemetery, taking time to read the headstones and handwritten notes, gives rise to multitudes of questions and amazement at the local history that is revealed. One marker simply says COWBOY 19 YRS HORSE KICKED. The story goes that he was carried into the local Sisters saloon for aid and the bartender thought he was just drunk. He died, and since no one knew him, he was buried nameless.

Camp Polk Cemetery can be found at 69955 Camp Polk Rd, Sisters Oregon. If you're in the area it is definitely worth checking out.