An unmistakable scent of autumn hangs in the air. The old iron fence gives a feeling of security, as the sound of gravel resonates under visitors' shoes. Surprisingly, this is a typical Blue Springs cemetery setting. The cemetery not only serves to house deceased loved ones, but also serves as a symbol of pride for Blue Springs and the surrounding community. Blue Springs Cemetery, a Gage County landmark, has a rich history and is an important part of community pride and service. Blue Springs Cemetery is located in the city of Blue Springs, Nebraska, located in the southeastern corner of the state. Blue Springs is located approximately 51 miles south of Lincoln and 12 miles south of Beatrice following Highway 77. Located one mile north of the Blue Springs city limits, the rural community with a population of 431 is very proud of the cemetery's rich history and recognition (Everson and Petersen). Nebraska gives credit to the Blue Springs Cemetery as the "oldest recorded cemetery" in Nebraska. The first recorded burial and death was that of Allen R. Johnson, on January 25, 1862. Johnson, who drowned in the Big Blue River, died on September 26, 1857 (age 125). Originally, the Johnson family buried their son in a field on the family farm. Later, after the cemetery was founded in 1860, they exhumed the body and buried their son in the new cemetery. His death is also considered the first recorded white death in Gage County (Petersen, Minute Book). Without the assistance of generous community members, the cemetery would not have been possible. "Pap" Taylor, a long-time citizen, donated the first acre of land, which inspired another outstanding citizen, namely "Uncle Bob" Wilson, to donate a second acre of land for burial p.... .. middle of paper .. ....basketmen and characters from the city's past. People work incredibly hard to maintain and document the cemetery, which gives a sense of pride and togetherness to the community. The oldest recorded cemetery in Nebraska is certainly a spectacular landmark for our state. Works Cited 1982 Blue Springs Centennial. Blue Springs, NE, 1982. Print. 125 Year Blue Springs Centennial Book. Print.Allen, Bob. Telephone interview. November 6, 2011.Carpenter, Connie. Letter to the author. October 15, 2011.MS. Blue Springs, Nebraska.Carpenter, Dale R. Personal Interview. October 22, 2011.Everson, Julie and Elinor Petersen. “Blue Springs Cemetery Tree Restoration Project.” Letter to the Grant Foundation. Summer 1997. MS. Blue Springs, Nebraska.Petersen, Elinor. Blue Springs Cemetery Minute Book. Print.Petersen, Elinor. Blue Springs Cemetery. Rep. Blue Springs, NE, 2011. Print.