Who is Buried Here?

Who is Buried Here?. . Typical of a 19th century working class community, this burial ground likely contained a large number of wooden and fieldstone markers. Open unmarked areas indicate that was probably the case. Many of these handmade markers have disappeared over time. No known maps have surfaced to confirm the original cemetery boundaries; canal erosion and local lore suggest that many graves were lost over the years. The existence of some manufactured markers, such as Harriet Serena Byard's stone, indicate a variety of economic statuses within the community. It is important to note that this cemetery was the first land purchase in Polktown by African Americans, in 1835. The African Union Church was the community's cultural center, serving as a meeting place., Graves that have been identified are: , . Harriet Serena Byard . Rebecca Webb . Perry Reynolds . Sarah Neal ., There are also nearly 40 fieldstones indicating additional burials, including one with the letters "E.W." hand-inscribed on the stone., The African Union Cemetery is the final resting place for these families and others, dating to the mid-19th century. Five Civil War veterans are buried here.