MICHIGAN SPIRIT
QUEST
The "SQ" in the
cache name above signifies Spirit Quest, a project by the local
geocachers to distinguish those caches that are set in cemeteries
and memorial gardens. This cache is part of that series created by
highlight cemeteries or memorial gardens in the area. Please be
respectful of the area, and observe their rules and posted hours
which are typically sunrise to sunset.
Welcome to East Amboy Cemetery
Amboy Township, Hillsdale County, Michigan
Amboy Township is located on the
southern border of Hillsdale County along the state line with
Ohio.
Amboy Township’s population has quietly grown over the past
decade because of its orientation as a largely rural farming area.
U.S. Census Bureau figures show the township with 1,224 residents
in 2000, which is up from the 978 recorded in 1990. Amboy's
uniqueness stems from its long and narrow shape: 12 miles long and
2 ½ miles wide – which requires four different fire
protection contracts to make sure they are protected, according to
township officials.
Records show the first settlements began in 1830; the purchase of
land from a government auction in Monroe also helped to boost
growth, according to the local history book “150 Years in the
Hills and Dales (Volume II).”
By the 1860 census, 756 people living in the township, which peaked
at 1,795 in the bureau’s 1870 count.
One of Amboy’s major attractions is its lakes. Merry Lake is
manmade, while Lake Diane is partly manmade and partly natural,
according to “Hills and Dales.” The Lake Diane Property
Owners Association monitors the area’s affairs. Amboy’s
rural nature is further underlined by nearly 40 miles of gravel
roads.
The Amboy Baptist Church at 3020 E. Territorial Road, Camden, is
one of the township’s other longest-standing attractions.
Residents first organized it on Feb. 23, 1850; Saturday afternoons
were typically set aside for “covenant meetings” for
worship, followed by business meetings.
Church members undertook a series of major renovations between 1941
and 1972, including purchase of a parsonage east of the Territorial
Road bridge; repair of the belfry and bell; and an additional exit
for the basement. Additional classroom space followed in 1971, on
the church’s north side.
