Four years ago, a friend mentioned a community project grant being offered by a local box store. That sparked a conversation within the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau about how we might use such an opportunity to make a lasting impact. As we explored ideas, one kept returning to my mind, something I had passed by countless times on my walks through Victory Park with my dogs: the African American Memorial Cemetery near the boat launch.

Although the Lewistown Borough was faithfully maintaining the grass, the cemetery itself had fallen into quiet neglect. Gravestones had sunk or broken, weeds were overtaking the site, and there was nothing to identify it as a place of historical or cultural importance. Most passersby had no idea they were driving past sacred ground, a resting place for members of our African American community, including veterans of the United States Colored Troops who fought bravely in the Civil War.

We applied for the grant with high hopes, but unfortunately, we were not selected. Still, that setback didn’t deter us. Jenny Landis, executive director of the Visitors Bureau, and I knew this was a project that needed to move forward, with or without funding. We had faith in our community, and we believed that if we asked for help, people would step up. And they did.

In 2021, we officially launched the African American Memorial Cemetery Rehabilitation Project. Our goals were clear and ambitious: raise funds for the professional restoration of headstones, install interpretive signage detailing local Black history, construct a welcoming archway to mark the cemetery’s entrance, and offer training for cemetery owners and caretakers to promote respectful, sustainable preservation practices.

A committee, including dedicated members from the Mifflin County Historical Society, as well as the community at large, was quickly formed. Fundraising letters were mailed, press releases shared our mission, and the community responded with overwhelming generosity. Through local contributions, donations of time and materials, and the unwavering dedication of volunteers, we raised more than $9,500. The heart of this community brought new life to a place long overlooked.

The pandemic temporarily slowed our momentum, but the work never truly stopped. Bit by bit, progress was made. Headstones were gently cleaned and raised, overgrowth cleared, the grounds landscaped, a striking new archway installed, and informational signage was installed. What was once fading into history was now being brought forward into the present.

All these efforts culminated in a moving rededication ceremony held on Sunday, July 13, 2025. It was a day of reflection, gratitude, and shared purpose. We gathered not only to celebrate the physical restoration of the cemetery, but to honor the lives and stories of those buried there, stories that had too long gone untold.

We were honored to welcome Dr. Steven Burg, professor of history at Shippensburg University and a passionate advocate for the preservation of African American cemeteries across Pennsylvania, as our guest speaker for the event. In 2021, Dr. Burg’s Intro to Public History class conducted research on this very cemetery, uncovering the names and military service of several of the men buried here. As a board member of Pennsylvania Hallowed Grounds, Dr. Burg encouraged us to look around, to truly see the significance of this place, and to reflect on the essential role Lewistown played in the broader story of emancipation and equality in America. Because of its national significance, Dr. Burg expressed his desire to see the cemetery included on the National Register of Historic Places.

The ceremony concluded with a benediction by Rev. Dr. Renita Marie Green, pastor of Bethel AME Church, and a heartfelt rendition of “Taps” performed by John Haubrick.

This cemetery is more than a burial ground, it is a symbol of resilience, dignity, sacrifice, and dedication. It is home to mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, who helped shape the fabric of our community.

This rededication marks a turning point. It’s not only a moment to honor the past but a call to preserve and protect our history moving forward. We are committed to ensuring that the lives memorialized here are never forgotten and that future generations will know, remember, and respect the voices that once went unheard.

To quote Maryland Governor Wes More, “Forgetting is the greatest form of disrespect.”

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Rhonda S. Kelley is the executive director of the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce.