Evergreen Cemetery (Richmond, Virginia) facts for kids
Evergreen Cemetery is a historic cemetery in Richmond, Virginia. It is a special place where many important African-American people are buried. This cemetery is located in the East End of Richmond and was first opened in 1891.
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A Look at Evergreen's History
The last time someone was buried in the oldest part of the cemetery was in the 1980s. Over the years, much of the cemetery became very overgrown. Plants like kudzu covered many areas, and parts of it started to look like a forest again.
The first group that owned the cemetery, the Evergreen Cemetery Association, did not set aside money for its long-term care. This meant there was no plan to keep it tidy forever. In 1970, this association sold more than 5,000 burial plots. The company that bought them soon went out of business. Later, a group of African-American funeral home directors bought the cemetery at an auction.
Important People Buried Here
Many notable people are buried at Evergreen Cemetery. These individuals made big differences in their communities and beyond.
Rev. John Andrew Bowler
- Rev. John Andrew Bowler (1862–1935) was an important educator. An educator is someone who teaches and helps people learn. He helped shape the minds of many students during his life.
John Mitchell, Jr.
- John Mitchell, Jr. (1863–1929) was a pioneer in civil rights. A civil rights pioneer is someone who works hard to make sure all people have equal rights and are treated fairly, no matter their race. He fought for justice and equality for African Americans.
Maggie L. Walker
- Maggie L. Walker (1867–1934) was a very successful businesswoman. She was the first African-American woman to start and lead a bank in the United States. She helped many people in her community become financially stable.
