The weathered metal of the Carrollton Black Cemetery Plaque speaks volumes. It tells a story of resilience. A story of a community often overlooked. This plaque marks a small cemetery established in the late 1800s by Scott Boswell. He was an early African-American farmer. The Carrollton Black Cemetery served generations. It served the community for almost a century. Burials continued until 1960. The last interment was Joyce Collins.
Despite its historical significance the cemetery faced hardship. Periodic flooding from the Trinity River damaged the cemetery. Most gravestones were lost to the relentless waters. Only a few markers remain visible today. Among them is a poignant headstone for Ned Welch. It reads “Ned Welch 1834-1884 Our father has gone to a mansion of rest to the glorious land of the deity blest”. His great-granddaughter Gwen Turner still remembers him.
The Carrollton Black Cemetery wasn’t formally dedicated until 1915. Before that it served as a burial ground for Carrollton’s Earl African American citizens. Many families are buried here. Among them are Allen Boswell Booth Bradley Cole Davis Foster Harris Hicks Hunnicutt Ingram Jackson Loving Oliver Patterson Payton Purvis Silverburg Welch and Williams. Many more remain unknown. Their identities are known only to God.
In 2002 a historical marker was finally dedicated. This commemorated the cemetery’s place in history. The marker recognized the contributions of the early black settlers of Carrollton. They were instrumental in the city’s growth. They built the foundation. The cemetery reflects their struggles and resilience. They were second-class citizens before the Civil Rights era.
The Carrollton Black Cemetery Plaque is more than just a marker. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of a community. A community that persevered despite adversity. It stands as a reminder of the vital role played by these early settlers. These pioneers laid the foundation for Carrollton. Their legacy continues to shape the city. This plaque ensures that their story isn’t forgotten. Let us remember them. Let us honor their memory. Let us cherish this place.