Preserving an Enslaved Persons' Cemetery

Check the historical society in the state, county, or town of the enslaved person’s cemetery to learn if you can document the cemetery with their office.

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The state historic preservation office may have a cemetery preservation or community services specialist who can help you document an enslaved persons’ cemetery with the state. If the cemetery is on private property, find out if you have a legal right to access the cemetery. Also check if your state provides funds to preserve and maintain enslaved persons’ cemeteries and graves.

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Virginia’s department of historic resources, for example, offers answers to frequently asked questions about preserving a cemetery, and a cemetery recordation form for members of the public. The form asks for information such as the cemetery’s condition, the number of grave markers and their inscriptions, if the cemetery is threatened by development, erosion, or neglect, and any drawn maps and photographs. The form is added to the department’s database for researchers, or for individuals, governments, and agencies seeking compliance with state and federal preservation laws.