Plan Your Visit
A quiet, rural historic site for learning and remembrance.
Outside Easton, Missouri
Kessler Cemetery
Easton, Missouri 64443
Buchanan County, Missouri
The cemetery is in the countryside outside Easton in northwest Missouri, on land that was once part of the Kessler Settlement, where pioneer families lived and farmed in the 1800s. The graves lie in the woods about 20 feet from Becks Branch, a small creek. Today it is a quiet historic burial ground that reflects the early history of Buchanan County and the families who settled it.
Getting there
The cemetery is about a half-mile walk from the gravel road. Please do not drive back to the cemetery unless you have permission from the landowner. Park only where it is safe, and don’t block roads or farm access. We suggest visiting in the fall, after the crops have been harvested.
Approximate coordinates: 39.7370° N, 94.6364° W
A site largely unchanged by time
The site is simple and has changed little since earlier times. You will see historic headstones, family plots and the landscape the early settlers knew. There are no restrooms, visitor center or paved walkways.
✦ Limited cell service
The cemetery is in a rural area and cell coverage may be limited. Plan ahead.
✦ Uneven ground
The ground can be uneven, especially after rain. Because the cemetery sits just a few steps from Becks Branch, it may be muddy or wet near the creek. Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and walk carefully.
✦ Changing weather
Missouri weather can change quickly, so dress for the conditions and plan accordingly.
What we ask of visitors
Kessler Cemetery is the resting place of early settlers and families who helped build this community. Many graves date to the pioneer period, when the region around St. Joseph was a frontier settlement. Please help preserve this place.
✠ Be respectful
- This is a burial ground and a sacred place.
- Please behave respectfully and speak quietly.
✠ Do not disturb graves
- Do not sit, stand or lean on headstones. Every marker is over 100 years old and can easily break.
- Do not try to move or clean stones.
✠ Stay on open paths
- Walk carefully and watch where you step.
- Some graves are unmarked or hidden and may be overgrown in summer.
✠ Leave everything as you found it
- Do not remove stones, flowers or artifacts.
- Pack out everything you bring in.
✠ Protect the historic site
- Do not climb fences, monuments or structures.
- Metal detecting and digging are not allowed.
✠ Respect the land & neighbors
- The cemetery is on private or protected farmland.
- Please visit after the fall harvest, and don’t drive in without the landowner’s permission.
Thank you for helping protect this cemetery so future generations can learn about the early families who lived and died here.