The next step in cemetery history evolved naturally with more settlers coming to Peace and bringing with them a bit of social history that of Secret Societies. Following the Civil War in the United States, people were on the move to claim new lands in the West and stake their claims to new lives. At this time secret societies, which had been a significant part of their lives, were formed in these new areas to provide fellowship and protection of members from theft, bodily harm, etc. These groups abounded in Sterling and included branches of the Anti-Horse Thief League, the Woodsmen, the Freemasons, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, etc. Although the I.O.O.F. membership was waning in the East at this time and writers euphemistically called the group, The Knights of Lost Splendor, the lodge became strong in Sterling. Many of the prominent citizens of early Sterling were active in this organization. As with most secret societies organized to give aid, assistance, and comfort to members and their families, the societies were the object of suspicion by nonmembers and religious groups. To overcome some of the suspicion and negative feelings, secret society members promoted local charitable and volunteer work. A common practice of the I.O.O.F. in many parts of the country was to establish a local cemetery, not only providing a section of burial ground for its membership and families, but also to show charity to the citizenry by providing a service, which all would need some time. In 1887 the I.O.O.F., Sterling Encampment #84, organized on June 3rd with twenty-four members. Lodge #181 membership arranged with W.Q. Elliott to buy the Cottonwood Park Cemetery. The cemetery included the Friends Cemetery and the land beyond where others had been buried. Lodge members put in walks, planted trees and tried to make additional improvements each year. The Lodge managed the Cottonwood Cemetery for several years, selling lots and providing some perpetual care. In 1907 individuals and clubs started a campaign to buy the cemetery and make it city property. The state had passed the legislation by which a second-class city could own and operate jointly, with the township, a cemetery. The ruling board would consist of the Mayor and one township trustee. This is the legislation by which the cemetery is governed today.