Evergreen Negro Cemetery

What secrets lie beneath the silent stones of Evergreen Negro Cemetery? This hallowed ground, nestled in Houston’s Fifth Ward, whispers tales of resilience, struggle, and a community’s enduring spirit. Evergreen Negro Cemetery, established in the 1890s, stands as a testament to Houston’s rich African American history. Originally founded by Alexander Kelley, a formerly enslaved man turned entrepreneur, Evergreen Negro Cemetery served as the final resting place for generations. Among the silent stones lie the remains of those who endured enslavement, brave Buffalo Soldiers who served their nation, and World War I veterans who fought for freedom on foreign shores. Evergreen Negro Cemetery witnessed the growth and evolution of Houston’s Fifth Ward. Burials continued until 1950, marking a significant period of the community’s life. Sadly, progress sometimes comes at a cost. In the 1960s, the city expanded Lockwood Drive, a decision that tragically bisected the cemetery and led to the displacement of 490 graves. This act disrupted the sanctity of the grounds and marked a period of decline for Evergreen Negro Cemetery. Today, Evergreen Negro Cemetery is a place of quiet reflection. It sits on two lots, bordered by the realities of modern life – sidewalks, a gas station, and the backyards of homes. A solitary city sign marks its presence at the intersection of Lockwood Drive and Interstate 10, but within the cemetery itself, there are no official signs or guides. This sacred space is maintained not by a government entity, but by the dedicated hands of local volunteers who mow the grass, plant trees, and strive to preserve the memory of those interred here. A poignant detail within Evergreen Negro Cemetery is the allée of crepe myrtle trees running east to west through the heart of both lots. These trees, planted by caring hands, visually reunite the two halves of the cemetery, attempting to mend the scar left by the intrusion of Lockwood Drive. The gravestones themselves tell individual stories. Crafted from various materials and in differing styles, some stand tall while others lean or lie partially hidden by the relentless growth of vegetation. Many of the stones feature a distinctive design element: white and blue tile lettering marking family plots, a common feature in historic Houston cemeteries. Look closely, and you’ll find additional symbols etched into the stone. A chain symbol, found on the grave of founder Alexander Kelley and others, silently declares their history as formerly enslaved individuals. Military markers, often adorned with dates of active duty, honor the veterans who rest here. Evergreen Negro Cemetery has not been forgotten. In the 1990s, Project RESPECT, a local nonprofit, joined forces with university students to begin the work of revitalization. Their efforts, combined with the ongoing care of volunteers, ensure that the stories held within these grounds continue to be told. In 2009, the state of Texas officially recognized the cemetery’s historical significance, designating it a “Historic Texas Cemetery.” Evergreen Negro Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it is a living history book. Its pages, etched in stone and whispered by the wind, tell the stories of a community that persevered through hardship, celebrated life, and left an enduring legacy for generations to come.