Calhoun County, AL – A reader’s discovery while walking through the woods near Coldwater Creek has unveiled a forgotten chapter of local history, shedding light on the life of Chesley Hughes, the first settler of Coldwater and a hero of the War of 1812.
Brought to the attention of the Calhoun Journal by an observant reader, the overgrown and neglected historical family cemetery plot tells the story of Chesley Hughes, born in 1782 in South Carolina, and his significant contributions to the early development of the Coldwater area.
Chesley Hughes, a War of 1812 hero, passed away on February 15, 1845, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Calhoun County, Alabama. The neglected cemetery, tucked away in the woods, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by early settlers and the importance of preserving their memory.
The gravesite, known as Hughes Cemetery, serves as the final resting place not only for Chesley Hughes but also for his wife, Margaret Hendrick Hughes. The couple, pioneers in the development of the region, had thirteen children, each contributing in their own way to the growth and history of Calhoun County.
The list of children, including Denarbus William “Narvie” Hughes, Harley Jackson Hughes, Margaret Melissa Hughes, Rassellas Prince “Rass” Hughes, George Commodore Perry Hughes, Maranda Hughes, Amanda Hughes, Jasper Coffee Hughes, Mary Ann Hughes, Marcus DeLafayette Hughes, Martha Benton Hughes, Infant Son Hughes, and Missouri Martin Van Buren Hughes, reflects the family’s deep roots in the community.
The rediscovery of this historical cemetery provides an opportunity for the community to reconnect with its past. The reader who stumbled upon the site expressed a sentiment shared by many: “It is sad that history is forgotten.” The dilapidated state of the cemetery serves as a call to action for local preservation efforts to ensure that the memories of pioneers like Chesley Hughes endure for future generations.
As Calhoun County reflects on its history, efforts to restore and maintain sites like the Hughes Cemetery become crucial in preserving the rich heritage of the region. The tale of Chesley Hughes and his family stands as a testament to the resilience and bravery of early settlers who laid the foundation for the communities we know today.
