"The father abandoned the family. Taken to the Home May 15, 1902. The child was taken ill, and for better nursing, it was taken in a close carriage to Eleanor Hospital August 9. It did not improve, but continued to grow worst until August 14th, when it died. Arrangements were made for the mother to attend."
These hand written notes found at the Marion County Children's Guardian Home in Indianapolis are all that is known of the short life of Merle Guess, five months old when he passed away. Merle was buried in an unmarked grave at Crown Hill Cemetery, as were many other children who were orphaned, abused, neglected or indigent. Discovered just a few years ago were the graves of 699 children buried between 1892 and 1980 from the Board of Children's Guardians, the Children's Bureau, Indianapolis Children's Asylum and the Home for Friendless Colored Children.
The Care For Kids Foundation's campaign to memorialize these children has resulted in the first Hearts Remembered Memorial. It is comprised of three black granite monoliths (center stone is 9ft tall), inscribed with the names of all 699 children buried at Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis, Indiana. The memorial, a fitting tribute to the lives of many, was fabricated by Royal Melrose Granites, with design work overseen by Chief Designer Joseph Miller. The center bronze statue depicting two young children arm in arm was designed and cast by Ryan Feeney. A bronze plaque listing the many corporations, foundations, and individuals that contributed to the memorial campaign will be placed near the site of the memorial. An in-depth documentary film about the first Hearts Remembered story is in production, documenting the emotions and history involved in such a moving saga , as well as the delivery, engraving and dedication of the Heart Remembered Memorial.
For a list of the children memorialized, click here.
