West Salem and the Moravian Cemetery stand as a tribute to the pioneer spirit of those Moravians from Salem, North Carolina who settled here in the 1840's. In a special way, this burial ground is a lasting memorial to those who spent their energies and their lives opening up to civilization this portion of Southern Illinois.
In the name of the church, Martin Hauser purchased 80 acres of land, the site of the present West Salem. First named New Salem, after Salem, North Carolina, the settlement became West Salem when it was discovered that a New Salem already existed near Springfield, Illinois.
Under Hauser's leadership, the first church was organized on May 23, 1844. That same year, the cemetery was laid out for use of the community. The cemetery follows the Moravian custom of separate burial sections for married men, married women, unmarried males, and unmarried females. The original section of the cemetery forms the shape of a cross, with stones laid flat and of the same size. The old English section is east of the arch and the old German section is in the northwest corner of the cemetery.
The arrival of 60 German immigrants in 1849 lead to the establishment of both the English- and German-speaking congregations. These two Moravian congregations remained independent, with their own buildings, pastors, and cemeteries until they merged in 1915.
The arch, dedicated in 1919, stands as a memorial to Martin Hauser, his wife Susanna, and their descendants. Martin and Susanna are buried east of the arch.
The memorial stone is dedicated to Martin and Susanna Hauser for their love and devotion to our church, our community, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
To find out more detailed information about the West Salem Moravian Cemetery and the Moravian Church of West Salem, please use one of the links below:
Historical Marker at the cemetery enterance
The cemetery at Easter 2001
Hauser Memorial Arch
