Influenza Epidemic Victims, Butler Co., Pa.-- Part 2: Immigrants

Just north of the West Winfield Township in Butler County, Pennsylvania,  is a silent, sobering place known as the Wooden Cross (or Black Cross) Cemetery.  In the early 1900s, many Polish and Slovak immigrants moved to this area in western Pa. to work in the expanding  limestone mine, sand plant, brick yards and tile works in the area.

However, in 1918, many of these men were exposed to  the influenza virus which turned into the worst pandemic ever in terms of those affected and those who died.

Many of these men died without a church, organization or family that would make sure they received a proper burial.  Like many immigrants of the time, these men had left their families behind and come to the new country to establish themselves.

At the same time, local, state and federal  governments refused to fund burials for them.  So, these men were buried here.