During the Oct. 16 city council meeting, a proposal presented by Cemetery Sexton Eric Emmons to name the old cemetery, located on the corner of North St. and Wilson St., received approval. The proposal recommended renaming the historically known "Old Morenci Cemetery.” Research conducted by Sexton Emmons revealed that Morenci was originally named “Brighton,” but when it was realized that another village had the same name, early residents Simon D. Wilson and Jeptha Whitman proposed changing the name to Morenci.
The old cemetery was established shortly after the town was settled in 1833. A gravestone for early settler Jacob Baker shows 1837 as the year of death. Jeptha Whitman became Morenci’s first postmaster in 1838. His gravestone lists 1847 as the year of death, at the age of 52. Oak Grove Cemetery was established in 1857. Records from both of Morenci’s cemeteries are available to read at Stair District Library.
Sexton Emmons suggested naming the old graveyard “Wilson-Whitman Cemetery.” City Council unanimously approved this name change, which marks a significant development in the cemetery’s history. A new sign, designed and produced by Roth Fabricating, will be erected to reflect the new name. The installation of the sign will coincide with the construction of wrought iron fencing and pillars, enhancing the cemetery’s visual appeal.
This decision underscores Morenci's commitment to preserving its historical legacy and acknowledging the contributions of key individuals in the town’s history. The new name, Wilson-Whitman Cemetery, will serve as a lasting tribute to the town’s origins and the roles played by Simon D. Wilson and Jeptha Whitman. The sign’s unveiling, alongside the cemetery’s aesthetic improvements, will act as a reminder of Morenci’s rich history and its dedication to heritage preservation for future generations.