Preserving Legacy: Restoring the African Methodist Cemetery at Johnsonville State Historic Park

Nestled on the picturesque banks of the Tennessee River, Johnsonville State Historic Park is making strides in honoring a crucial aspect of its history—the African Methodist Cemetery. This site, rich in stories of freedom and resilience, is undergoing a comprehensive restoration aimed at reclaiming the legacies left behind by formerly enslaved individuals and their descendants.

A Journey Through History

Located in Norris, Tennessee, this cemetery was established shortly after the Civil War, as a testament to the newly formed freedmen's community. It holds the graves of over 400 individuals, including service members from the Civil War and World War I, along with families who demonstrated immense courage in establishing a new life after the turmoil of war.

Park Superintendent Bob Holliday emphasizes the importance of remembering those who played vital roles in shaping the Johnsonville area: "Just as we honor the soldiers who fought here during the Battle of Johnsonville, we are equally committed to preserving the memory of those who built new lives in its aftermath."

The striking echoes of the battle that took place in November 1864 linger on, but this restoration project is about reviving a narrative that speaks of perseverance and hope.

Restoration Efforts in Full Swing

Over the past year, in collaboration with the Tennessee Division of Archaeology and the Tennessee Historical Commission, park staff have worked diligently to restore the African Methodist Cemetery to its original state from 1939. This includes careful removal of overgrown vegetation and trees threatening grave sites. The National Park Service had flagged many of these trees as risks, many of which were found to be hollow and posed a threat to headstones and graves.

Following the removal process, the hillside terrain has been reseeded to promote healthy grass growth, which will help to limit erosion—a common issue in historic sites like these. Furthermore, a ground-penetrating radar survey, conducted in partnership with the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area, has uncovered a startling number of graves; initially thought to number only 108, the survey revealed 417 graves in total.

Unveiling Forgotten Stories

Despite numerous graves lying unmarked, each contains stories waiting to be uncovered. The cemetery's restoration not only signifies a physical reclamation of the land but also a commitment to recognizing the lives of those buried there. The graves date back to 1865, and some of the earliest occupants may have met their end due to cholera, as deduced from Freedmen's Bureau records.

Amongst those remembered are two World War I veterans and several Civil War veterans. One poignant story is that of Velma Wells, the eight-day-old daughter of George Wells, whose death went without doctor care, showcasing the resilience of families during trying times. Another significant figure is Sarah Madison, the wife of a Civil War veteran, who lived through slavery to experience freedom before her passing.

Educating the Public and Honoring the Past

Moving forward, plans are in place to install permanent headstones at the cemetery, ensuring that these stories are not forgotten. In collaboration with Middle Tennessee State University's Center for Historic Preservation, interpretive panels will be set up to educate visitors about the experiences of those who shaped the community long after the guns of war fell silent.

As Holliday states, "Our goal is not only to preserve this sacred space but to ensure every visitor understands the courage and endurance of those who lived here."

A Commitment to Memory

From the solemn echoes of the Battle of Johnsonville to the inspirational restoration of the African Methodist Cemetery, Johnsonville State Historic Park stands as a beacon of remembrance. It embodies the spirit of a community that transformed the remnants of conflict into stories of hope and resilience for future generations. Visitors to this historic park are encouraged to reflect on the past and learn from the legacies of those whose struggles paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today.