Permission for the placement of this cache obtained from:
West Union Cemetery Board and Sexton
Cache Type
This cache is a multi-cache located within the boundaries of the West Union Cemetery.
Geocachers will visit a monument at the coordinates listed above.
While at the specified monument, cachers will be able to calculate the final cache location by answering the question below.
The cache is a unique camouflaged micro (NOT a nano, bigger than a film can but not really room for SWAG) located within the boundaries of the cemetery.
Why Are We Bringing You Here?
The West Union Cemetery is a well-kept cemetery that is a source of pride for West Union.
There are a number of interesting monuments and associated history which we wish to share.
This particular monument is unique due to a particularly touching story of gratitude.
The simple monument is for John Johnson who died in 1918.
This man was born a slave, freed during the civil war and moved to Iowa to work as a farm hand.
Directly to the south is the farmer who John worked with during his time in Iowa.
The farmer and his wife are Robert and Alvira Dickson.
When John died from influenza in the winter of 1918, Robert was grateful for the work of John.
Robert purchased the plot and stone for John and laid him to rest eventually next to he and his wife.
The monuments for both John and Robert are simple, but it seems clear, gratitude was earned.
Final Stage Location Determination:
While at the coordinates above, observe the Dickson monument.
Select the correct answer to determine the final location.
The monument indicates the year of death for Robert.
Robert died how many years after John, if:
4 years or less, the final coordinates are = N 42° 57.553, W 091° 48.915
between 5 - 10 years, the final coordinates are = 42° 57.589, W 091° 49.011
10+ years, the final coordinates are = 42° 57.551, W 091° 48.871
Choose wisely!
Other Points of Interest Monuments
The other monuments marked as points of interest are in the forms of "trees" and are very unique...only 4 are in this cemetery. The final monument indicated is for a child marker in the form of an angel. These do not relate to the multi-cache but are interesting to observe.
Please Note:
Hours
The cemetery posted hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Do not attempt at a time when the cemetery is closed.
Respect
This is a place deserving respect from all visitors.
If there is a ceremony taking place, please do not disturb the ceremony or other visitors.
No Pets
The West Union Cemetery Board has a clear policy of no pets in this cemetery…please follow this rule.
Winter
It is possible during the winter for a monument to be covered wholly or partially with snow.
These particular monuments are small in size.
For obvious reasons, please no digging.
Roads
The sexton keeps the roads here plowed if there is snow.
Please remain on the plowed roads.
Please note: Hint leans towards being a spoiler!