Old City Cemetery is the final resting place for about 20,000 people, two-thirds of them African Americans. From its opening in 1806 until the opening of White Rock Cemetery in 1882, this was the only cemetery in the city open to Black people. Although some graves were never marked and markers on some others have been lost to time and neglect, cemetery staff continue to document the names and lives of those buried here and to share that information through this brochure, signage, tours, and our website. The rich history of the African American community and its contributions to Lynchburg life come alive in the Old City Cemetery!
This Guide is Published by Old City Cemetery.