SARASOTA, Fla.-A once forgotten Sarasota Cemetery is getting a fresh, new start.
Woodlawn Cemetery in the city’s African-American community is a window into local history.
During the last few years, the city has been working on preserving the cemetery for the past for future generations.
This is Woodlawn, Oakland, Pepperhill Cemetery, and many more names.opened in the early 1900’s.
Sarasota’s first segregated cemetery for African-Americans was deeded to them in 1905.
“Our story begins here. You’ll find slaves buried here. You’ll find sons and daughters of our pioneers like Mr. Reid,” said Willie Shaw, city of Sarasota commissioner. “It’s important to know where you came from so you know where you are going.”
Families there are buried side by side and in a group.
Shaw has generations of his family buried there, dating back to 1910.
“My uncle Yester Streets to the left his mother my great grandmother, great grandfather their children. It’s lines of family,” explained Shaw.
Families maintained their family lots but not everyone did their part over the years. A few years ago the cemetery was overgrown even the homeless lived there.
The property was so overgrown Shaw said you couldn’t see it.
In 2016 the city took over maintenance and set aside $425,000 for design, surveying, restoration and clean up. Jennifer Cintron is part of the cleaning crew.
“A lot so old their families not alive anymore. I think we’re helping one’s not here to help take care of them anymore,” Cintron said.
Before and after photos of grave sites show they were once a dirty gray color and are now brighter.
“It’s so rewarding. I love it.” Cintron said.
During the cleanup, the city discovered the five acre cemetery has a pond and more green space for future burials.
"It’s as if the cemetery has come to life again," Shaw said, “It is alive there’s a vibrance here.”
Commissioner Shaw said he hopes to have a reunion of families so they can visit the cemetery and see their ancestry and learn their story. He also hopes to reopen the cemetery for burials one day.
