Trenton, New Jersey is witnessing a remarkable transformation as efforts are underway to rehabilitate and create a museum at an African American burial ground. This once-forgotten cemetery holds the remains of approximately 200 African Americans, including at least 10 Civil War veterans. The Locust Hill Cemetery, located behind an East Trenton neighborhood, was historically segregated, reflecting the racial divisions of the time.
Algernon Ward Jr., the Locust Hill Project Director, explains that New Jersey was not only segregated in life but also in death. Burial in segregated cemeteries continued until the 1880s when legislation was passed to end this practice. However, the decline of the segregated cemetery meant that the burial ground was eventually forgotten.
Thanks to the Locust Hill Project, the burial ground is being revitalized and restored to honor the memory of those buried there. The project received a $400,000 appropriation from the state, allowing them to rescue the cemetery from neglect and obscurity. Detailed studies and an environmental report were conducted to trace the history of the property, leading to the discovery of perfectly aligned graves, six feet below the surface.
The significance of this project has captured the attention and support of the community. Gregory Keel, a Trenton resident, was unaware of the cemetery’s historical importance until his employer, Amazon, donated $10,000 to aid in the cleanup efforts. Keel emphasizes the excitement and pride he feels knowing that such a significant project is taking place in the Trenton community.
The Locust Hill Project has ambitious plans for the cemetery. They aim to restore headstones and transform an existing building on the site into Trenton’s first Black history museum. The museum will feature exhibit spaces, showcasing stories and providing the community with an opportunity to learn and appreciate their heritage. Additionally, there will be a genealogy center where individuals can research their family history.
However, the project is still in need of additional funding, requiring $350,000 to complete the restoration and open the cemetery and museum to the public. The Locust Hill Project hopes to finalize the project by the following summer.
The rehabilitation of the African American burial ground at Locust Hill Cemetery in Trenton is a significant step towards preserving and celebrating the history of African Americans in the region. By rescuing this forgotten site and creating a museum, the project aims to shed light on the lives and contributions of those buried there. The community’s support and ongoing fundraising efforts will play a crucial role in achieving this goal. With continued dedication and resources, the transformed cemetery and museum will stand as a testament to the resilience and heritage of African Americans in Trenton.
