White Rock Cemetery Tour

Explore the first independent African American cemetery in Lynchburg, established in 1882 by Jackson Street Methodist Church. During a period when racial segregation extended even into death, White Rock Cemetery provided Lynchburg’s Black citizens with a place to ensure a safe and respectful burial for their families.

Today, the cemetery provides us with the opportunity to explore the lives of people who shaped Lynchburg’s history, but whose stories have been overlooked or forgotten. Learn about ministers, teachers, craftspeople, civic leaders, and veterans, including namesake of Jefferson Park Thomas R. Jefferson, small business owner and cemetery caretaker Matilda Blair, and Congolese native Ota Benga.