On March 9, 1909, more than 100 years ago, 10 recently freed black Americans bought a 17 and one-half acre site located about 17 blocks from Main Street, straight out Union Street as a burial site for blacks awaiting the Lord’s coming.

Called the Colored Cemetery in the Shooting Park and later Watkins Street, thousands of black citizens were buried there.

Many of African descent and the children of one recorded African Prince Ibrahima are buried here.

G.W. Brumfield, educator and cofounder A.A. Newell are the only two founders buried here.

Many other great black leaders who lived and were educated at Natchez College share the legacy of those who died here. The recently formed preservation organization, the Descendants, are dedicated to cherish, protect and preserve this hallowed site.

As true descendants that we are, help us to hallow and preserve our sanctuary at Watkins Street.

Send donations to: The Descendants, c/o NAPAC Black Museum, 301 Main St., Natchez, MS.

 

Thelma T. White is a retired teacher and Natchez resident.