Historic and Cultural Sites

Miltonvale is home to a rich tapestry of American heritage, highlighted by remarkable WPA-era projects that showcase the craftsmanship and resilience of the 1930s. Visitors can admire the Bandshell, Entrance Posts, Stone Bridge, Scout Cabin, and the Fountain, all constructed with native stone and part of the New Deal’s legacy to help alleviate the mass unemployment of the Great Depression.

The Miltonvale Cemetery holds deep historical significance, serving as the final resting place of many early settlers and veterans. Of special note is the grave of James Burbank, a Civil War Medal of Honor recipient. Together, these landmarks offer a unique glimpse into the area’s culture, honoring both community spirit and national service.

Starr Center Graveyard

Was established in 1881, when the town of Starr Center flourished as a trading post at a location a mile east of what later became Miltonvale. It was said by Old Settlers that at least thirty people were buried there. Many were laid away with wooden or small stone markers, which have crumbled and gone with the years.

Location
Begin at the Miltonvale entrance of junction Hwy 24 and Hwy 189. Head east on Hwy 24 approximately 3/4 mile.

The grave markers are located on the south side of the road.

Miltonvale Cemetery

The original cemetery plot of five acres located in Southeast quarter section 20-8-1 was purchased from Mr. Tootle for $125, January 20, 1884. Additional land adjoining on the north and west from the Tootle Estate for $500 on June 23, 1917, and another tract west for $780 on August 29, 1950. —1959 History Book

Location
2575 Bell Rd., Miltonvale

Miltonvale Veterans Memorial

Five granite benches, each with a bronze marker that depicts the five branches of service, surround an original WPA era stone fountain. Under the flag on the west side of the site, two plaques commemorate Fury – Blockhlinger Post 177 and Fury – Blochlinger Post 177 Auxiliary.

Learn more...
Post 177
Auxiliary

Fury – Blochlinger Post 177: The Post was formed in January 1920. Named for LeRoy V. Fury the first man to enlist in World War 1 in June 1917. He died serving his country in 1918. In 1945 Blochlinger was added to the Post’s name after Raphael Blochlinger was killed in action in Trier, Germany in 1943. The Fury – Blochlinger Post 177 Donated Funds to assist with the Park Renovation specifically adding the Veterans’ Memorial. The Memorial honors all Five Branches of the Service: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Thank you to each Veteran who served to protect our freedoms. As you stand in this place may the peace surround you remembering those Veterans whether past, present, or future who have given you this right.

Fury – Blochlinger Post 177 Auxiliary: The Auxiliary Post was chartered in 1946. The Auxiliary was very active including helping with the blood mobiles, distributing poppies, decorating Veterans’ graves, and other programs. In 1981 the legion and Auxiliary worked together to add an Avenue of flags at
the Miltonvale Cemetery. Flags are put up each Memorial Day by volunteers. The Auxiliary in 2018 remains with only 6 members, who with community volunteers continue to place a flag at each Veteran’s grave on Memorial Day.

Location

Miltonvale City Park, 214 East Ash Avenue

Miltonvale’s WPA Legacy

During the 1930s, Miltonvale became a hub of Works Progress Administration (WPA)
activity, resulting in a lasting collection of public works that continue to shape the community’s identity. Utilizing local materials and labor, the WPA constructed numerous enduring landmarks, including the Bandshell, Stone Entrance Posts, Stone Bridge, Fountain, and the Scout Cabin.
Each project reflects the era’s commitment to utility, beauty, and craftsmanship, providing jobs during the Great Depression while enhancing the town’s infrastructure and civic spaces. These features not only highlight the architectural style of the New Deal era, but also serve as a physical reminder of Miltonvale’s resilience, community pride, and historical significance.

Location

Miltonvale City Park, 214 East Ash Avenue

Honoring James Burbank

James H. Burbank, was a Civil War Medal of Honor Recipient. Born in Holland, he served as a Sergeant in Company K, 4th Rhode Island Infantry, Union Army. On the Blackwater River, Franklin, Virginia, October 3, 1862, while detached to the Union gunboat Barney, Sergeant Burbank repelled Confederate shore batteries with great courage. For Gallantry in action, he was awarded the Medal of Honor on July 27, 1896.

Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith

Location

Miltonvale Cemetery, 2575 Bell Rd., Miltonvale

Miltonvale’s WPA Legacy: Building More Than Structures

"The WPA is a tribute to our determination to give the unemployed useful work and to preserve their skills and self-respect."
— President Franklin D. Roosevelt

From stone bridges and entrance posts to the bandshell, Scout Cabin, and Veterans Memorial fountain, Miltonvale proudly showcases the enduring craftsmanship of the Works Progress Administration. These projects not only provided vital employment during the Great Depression, but also created lasting landmarks that continue to serve and inspire the community today.

Creator: U.S. National Archives and Records Administration | Credit: U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

Scout Cabin

Built from locally sourced stone, this rustic structure was designed to serve as a gathering place for Boy Scouts and other civic groups, fostering youth development and community engagement. Its enduring presence reflects the WPA's commitment to providing meaningful work and enriching public spaces during the Great Depression. Today, the cabin remains a cherished landmark, symbolizing both the architectural heritage and the communal spirit of Miltonvale.

Scout Cabin

Built from locally sourced stone, this rustic structure was designed to serve as a gathering place for Boy Scouts and other civic groups, fostering youth development and community engagement. Its enduring presence reflects the WPA's commitment to providing meaningful work and enriching public spaces during the Great Depression. Today, the cabin remains a cherished landmark, symbolizing both the architectural heritage and the communal spirit of Miltonvale.