Charles Hamilton addressed the Union County Historical Society at its November 2025 meeting. Mr. Hamilton discussed the Hamilton Cemetery Association (HCA). Although the official deed date is 1901, the Hamilton Cemetery is one of Union County's oldest cemeteries with graves dating to the early 1800's. Graves include military veterans from the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, the Spanish American War, WWI, and WWII. There are over 36 family surnames represented with many including some of Union County's earliest pioneers. A section where slaves are buried is also at the cemetery.

According to Mr. Hamilton, the cemetery suffered many years of neglect before the descendents organized a nonprofit in 2000 to mow, maintain, and restore the historic county landmark. All funds are aacquired through donations. John Verlin Cabage and his wife, Mary Ann, were largely responsible for the formation of the HCA. Besides shepherding the journey to becoming a 501c3, both researched, wrote, and mailed newsletters titled “Whispers of the Oaks” to detail the transformation of the cemetery from an overgrown brush thicket to a pristine historical tribute to the Hamilton ancestors. Sadly John passed away on July 29, 2024, but his legacy is continued by the faithful supporters of the HCA.

Two gatherings of the various descendents have recently occurred. The first was in 2023 and occurred after a 30 year hiatus. The gathering has become known as the Gathering of Generations. In 2025, a second gathering expanded to an invitation for anyone who has a Union County Heritage. Both gatherings began at the Union County Museum with speakers and activities related to the Hamilton and Union County.

In keeping with the mission to not only maintain and preserve the cemetery itaself, but also to encourage community involvement in Union County's Heritage, HCA President Charles Hamilton invited Arthur Bohanan to use his skills to attempt to locate the grave of William Hamilton, the earliest ancestor. Mr. Bohanan was able to pinpoint a possible location. As time and funds permit, Charles plans to use ground penetrating radar to more accurately locate the grave. The HCA is also working to identify other graves includingh those of the slaves.

The HCA donated three historical items to the Union County Museum. One item is a photograph dated circa 1895 of the six Hamilton brothers and the great grandsons of William Hamilton: William Lay (Will), Francis Marion (France), John Alvis, Aaron, Alexander Lafayette (Fate), and Jasper Terrell (Jas). A second photograph includes Aaron Hamilton and his wife Phoebe Catherine, who were married in 1860 and resided in Eldorado, Oklahoma. The final photograph was found underneath the the photograph of the brothers and was glued to the board used to support the frame. It is a picture of General Robert E. Lee. All of these photos, graciously accepted by Union County Historical Society President Ellen Perry, can be viewed at the Union County Museum. Arthur Bohannan will further explain how William's grave was located and other cemetery studies on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 2:30 at the museum. The public is welcome.