Last updated: March 18, 2023
Place
Samuel Cemetery
NPS Photo/Daniel Cox
When the last group of settlers arrived at Nicodemus, they ventured to the southwest to homestead land in Wildhorse Township. This area, referred to as Kebar was noted for its natural springs and tall native grasses. The newcomers soon established the Samuel Cemetery. It marks the final resting place of many early settlers, and descendants continue to bury loved ones on this hill overlooking the entire region. Notably, Buffalo Soldier Sam Garland of the 10th US Cavalry rests here among other family members. He homesteaded east of this site. Another remembered, but unmarked grave is that of Amanuel Napue, son-in-law of Reverend John Samuels. According to descendants’ oral histories, famous scout and Wild West showman Buffalo Bill Cody shot Amanuel in the leg. The wound resulted in gangrene that led to his death. His burial was one of the earliest in the cemetery.