Richmond conservationists enlist goats to clear historic black cemetery.
A Centuries-Old Cemetery for Enslaved Black People Uncovered with the Help of Goats
A remarkable discovery has been made in Richmond, Virginia, as a woman and her neighbors, along with a herd of goats, cleared away a grove of birch trees to reveal a long-forgotten cemetery. Forest View Cemetery, a historic black burial ground dating back to the 19th century, had been hidden beneath layers of poison ivy and debris. Thanks to the efforts of RVA Goats and Honey, the cemetery was transformed in just a few days, with headstones now visible and the area free from dangerous plants.
Preserving a Forgotten Legacy
Melissa Linkous, a resident of Forest View, initially took it upon herself to clear the cemetery but soon realized she needed more assistance. She explained, “The cemetery had been protected for so many years by the poison ivy, which kept people out. But it also prevented volunteers from entering. So the goats came in, devoured the poison ivy, and then the human volunteers joined in to continue the work.”
Leading the goat-clearing operation is Kristi Orcutt, the owner of RVA Goats and Honey. For the past five years, Orcutt and her herd of over a hundred goats, many of them rescues, have been dedicated to clearing Forest View Cemetery. Orcutt sees this effort as a step towards justice for black lives, black bodies, and black ancestry. She stated, ”It’s long overdue, and I want to contribute in any way I can.”
A Rich History Unearthed
Forest View Cemetery, located on the border of Richmond and Henrico County, has a history that can be traced back to 1873 when it served as the final resting place for those formerly enslaved at B.W. Green’s plantation. The cemetery’s legacy continued through generations, representing the freed black people of Bandy Field. However, in 1955, the city of Richmond purchased the area, displacing the descendants of those buried there to make way for a school.
Archaeologist Tim Roberts believes that the cemetery holds stories that connect to significant periods in history, such as the Civil War, Reconstruction, the civil rights era, and urban renewal. While there is still much work to be done in restoring the cemetery, Roberts emphasizes its importance, stating, “This is not just some forgotten piece of land. It was built by people who owned the plots and had a clear stake in it.”
Preservation Efforts and Future Hopes
The Friends of Forest View Cemetery have urged residents to keep animals away from the fenced area to allow the goats to work undisturbed. They have also requested that people refrain from feeding the goats. Additionally, signage will be placed around the cemetery to inform visitors of its historical significance.
Melissa Linkous expressed her hope that the cemetery will be preserved and protected with the help of the descendant community and the decisions being made today. She believes that the stories of Forest View Cemetery will continue to be told for generations to come, ensuring that its importance is recognized long after our lifetimes.
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What is the historical significance of Forest View Cemetery for the black community in Richmond and the surrounding areas?
Ed to clearing overgrown vegetation in various areas around Richmond. The partnership between Orcutt and the Forest View community has proven to be a success, not only for uncovering the cemetery but also for raising awareness about the history and significance of black cemeteries in the area.
Forest View Cemetery holds great historical importance as a final resting place for enslaved black people during a time when they were denied burial in white cemeteries. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and contributions of the black community in Richmond and the surrounding areas. By uncovering this neglected cemetery, the community is taking an important step in preserving and honoring the memory of those buried there.
The work done by Orcutt and her goats is not only physically demanding but also emotionally significant. Orcutt and her team understand the importance of gentler methods of vegetation clearing, especially in areas with historical significance. Using goats instead of machinery minimizes damage to the land and ensures the preservation of the cemetery.
The success of this endeavor showcases the power of community-driven initiatives. Residents of the Forest View neighborhood came together, recognizing the importance of their shared history, and took action to preserve it. This grassroots effort demonstrates that everyone has a role to play in preserving and promoting historical legacies.
The importance of preserving black cemeteries cannot be overstated. These burial grounds are sacred spaces that provide a link to the past, offering insights into the lives and struggles of enslaved black people. Additionally, they serve as a place of solace and reflection for the descendants of those buried there. The resilience and determination of the black community are evident in the existence of these cemeteries, which were created despite systemic oppression.
The uncovering of Forest View Cemetery serves as a call to action for the restoration and preservation of other forgotten or neglected black cemeteries across the country. The stories of these cemeteries deserve to be told, and the memory of those buried there deserves to be honored.
Moving forward, it is crucial that efforts be made to protect and maintain Forest View Cemetery. This includes ongoing clearing of vegetation, thorough documentation of the headstones and burial sites, and the establishment of proper maintenance protocols. The community’s dedication to preserving this historical site should serve as an inspiration for future preservation efforts.
In conclusion, the discovery of Forest View Cemetery in Richmond, Virginia, with the help of goats is a remarkable achievement. It highlights the power of community-driven initiatives and the importance of preserving black cemeteries. The work done by RVA Goats and Honey and the residents of Forest View serve as a testament to the resilience and determination of the black community. As efforts continue to protect and maintain this historic burial ground, it is crucial that similar efforts be made across the country to restore and preserve other neglected black cemeteries.
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