Integrating the graves of Union and Confederate war dead may be unthinkable for some, but there is precedent. Arlington National Cemetery has sections for both sides in the Civil War.

But we can sidestep combatant integration in Salisbury. There are at least 170 Confederate graves in the Old Lutheran Cemetery. The well-maintained graves from 1862 to 1865 are surrounded by an open grassy area. A large tree stands by the brick wall 15 feet from the graves.

Since 1980, the historic Old Lutheran Cemetery on North Lee Street has been owned by the City of Salisbury. Swap that section of the 1768 cemetery for the median on West Innes Street.

“Fame” is a Confederate war memorial. It belongs in a cemetery overlooking the graves of the fallen. We have the hallowed ground waiting for it a half mile from where it stands now.

— Pete Prunkl

Salisbury