Jurisdiction: Baroda Township Section 11
Status: Active. BCGS Cemetery Records updated October 18, 2008.
Location: West Side of Stevensville-Baroda Road, One Half Mile North of Lemon Creek Road
Cemetery Governing Body: Baroda Township
Location of Cemetery Records:
Size: 6 acres
Ruggles Cemetery was named after pioneer citizen, Peter Ruggles who lived in the area and had a sawmill in section 2, less than a mile north of the present cemetery. The old burial ground was north of and adjacent to the original Ruggles/Phillips School. Just inside the entrance of the cemetery on the right hand side is the Veteran’s Memorial constructed of brick. Large trees near the memorial mark the location of the old Ruggles/Phillips School. Plaques attached read:
“Dedicated by the Baroda American Legion and Auxiliary Post 345 (1971)
In honor of those who served their country in time of need.”
The older portion of the cemetery lies north of the entrance drive and consists of about 2 acres. The newer portion south of the main drive contains 4 acres. Plat maps for the old section have been lost but the cemetery is well cared for. From “Berrien Bicentennial”, by James T. Carney:
“The well-kept Ruggles Cemetery is the resting place for many of the early settlers, as well as those of recent years.”
One of the greatest tragedies ever to strike Baroda occurred on November 13, 1946. At 11:37 AM, a large explosion ripped through the 2-story brick school. In all, 17 children were injured but Walter Edward Ruppel died of his injuries 3 hours later. Investigators later determined that the cause of the explosion was a faulty safety valve on the hot water tank, which allowed pressure to build up until it exploded. Walter Edward Ruppel was born in 1932 and was a 14-year old student at Baroda School at the time of the accident. He was laid to rest in Ruggles Cemetery.
On June 3, 2002, Baroda Village President, John Harner was digging the grave in Ruggles Cemetery for one of the area’s oldest citizens when a thunderstorm developed. But this was unlike a typical storm in Baroda because Ruggles Cemetery became the target for a large lightening bolt, which struck a tree. John Harner had his back to the tree but quickly ran when it hit. He was truly amazed when he saw the tree. A tree limb struck by the lightening bolt wedged itself sideways on another tree, forming a cross. Sightseers came from all over to see this sight and the story was even reported on Chicago’s WGN TV station. John Harner stated that he felt a connection with the woman whose grave he was digging and wonders if it was a sign from her. She was Mrs. Rose (Hendrix) Phiscator who passed away on June 1, 2002 at the age of 106 years. She was a lifelong resident of Baroda and left an undeniable impression on many residents, especially John Harner. Unfortunately, the instability of the tree made it tumble down leaving the cemetery cross only but a memory.
In September of 2002, the Baroda Township Board brought up the idea of buying some additional land adjacent to Ruggles Cemetery, which would allow a second driveway to be installed.
Written by David Barricklow and Chriss Lyon
