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NATCHEZ – Julie Johnson had “no idea what really goes on at the cemetery” before joining the Natchez City Cemetery Association Board of Directors.

“People would be amazed at what all we do,” said Johnson. “People don’t realize what is required to maintain the property as well as make it a destination for tourists and visitors.”

Established in 1822 on a bluff high above the Mississippi River, the historic Natchez City Cemetery tells the stories of Natchez throughout the centuries, offering breath-taking views of the river as well marble and iron works created by master craftsmen.

While the cemetery is public, the bulk of its financial support comes from generous sponsors, donations, fundraisers and works of the cemetery association.

“And we some events, like Angels on the Bluff, which takes place every fall,” Johnson said. For more than 20 years, the event has brought to live the history and stories of the cemetery’s residents through actor portrayal and raised thousands of dollars for the cemetery’s upkeep.

“We were trying to think of an idea for fundraising in the spring, since we have some immediate needs,” Johnson said. Those needs include landscaping for the new Bluff Columbarium, which will be dedicated in April and provide a stunning repository for cremated remains; repairs to the historic shelter house; stabilization of the old maintenance barn; and additional maintenance.

The solution is Petals for a Purpose – a raffle fundraiser that offers the chance to win a $5,000 cash prize as well as the opportunity to purchase coveted tickets for Angels on the Bluff.

“You can buy a petal (ticket) for $100,” Johnson said. “And you have a chance to win a $5,000 cash prize. We also sweetened the pot. Anybody who purchases a petal will have the opportunity to purchase tickets for Angels on the Bluff this Fall before the tickets go on sale to the general public.”

Johnson said response for Petals for a Purpose has been overwhelmingly positive. “We’ve had a great response from the community so far,” Johnson said. “It has been wonderful. The most important thing for us is to have is community support.”

Petals (tickets) are available for purchase through April 23. “We will have a drawing at the columbarium at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 25, to select the winner,” Johnson said. “And on that Sunday, April 27, we will have a public ceremony to dedicate the Bluff Columbarium.”

Tickets may be purchased via the association’s website, thenatchezcitycemetery.com .

Johnson also will be at the Natchez Farmer’s Market on Saturday. “I’ll have petals available for anyone who wants to purchase one,” she said.