Charles Town's African American Cemetery Finally Honored
City dedicates long-neglected African American cemetery
The Spirit of Jefferson | Thursday, August 21, 2025
On August 17, city officials and community members gathered in Charles Town to dedicate a new monument and grave markers at the long-neglected African American Cemetery. Linda Downing Ballard, a committee member formed by former Mayor Bob Trainor, underscored the importance of honoring the forgotten stories of those buried there, which include both enslaved and free African Americans. Despite the cemetery being purchased by the city in 1836, documentation regarding burials has been scarce, making this dedication a significant step in reclaiming the memory of those lost to history.