What's Happening?
The Lane Street Project, a community-driven conservation collective in Wilson, North Carolina, is dedicated to the recovery, documentation, and restoration of three historic, neglected African-American cemeteries: Odd Fellows Cemetery (established circa
1900), Rountree Cemetery (established circa 1906), and Vick Cemetery (established 1913). Founded in 2020 by local historian Lisa Y. Henderson, the initiative has transformed these long-abandoned spaces into recognized historic sites. The project organizes multi-generational volunteers for physical restoration, including clearing overgrown brush and trash, and for historical mapping, formally registering the cemeteries with the North Carolina State Office of Archaeology. They also compile public databases of burials from death certificates and grave markers, preserving records dating back to the 1760s. In October 2026, the project successfully advocated for comprehensive interpretive signage and permanent granite boundary markers at Vick Cemetery.
Why It's Important?
The Lane Street Project addresses a critical issue of historical preservation and social justice in the U.S., particularly concerning neglected African-American burial grounds. The restoration of these cemeteries not only honors the memory of those buried there but also rectifies decades of neglect and historical oversight. For the community in Wilson, North Carolina, it provides a tangible connection to their past and promotes a deeper understanding of local African-American history. This initiative highlights the importance of grassroots efforts in preserving cultural heritage and ensuring that marginalized histories are recognized and respected. The project's work in mapping and archiving also contributes valuable genealogical and historical data.
What's Next?
The Lane Street Project is expected to continue its volunteer-led restoration efforts and archival work. The establishment of a formal 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Friends of Lane Street Project, will support long-term research, funding, and maintenance. Future plans likely include ongoing physical restoration, further genealogical research, and community engagement events to raise awareness and solicit support. The project's success in advocating for signage and markers at Vick Cemetery sets a precedent for similar recognition at other neglected sites, potentially inspiring similar initiatives across the state and country.
Beyond the Headlines
The Lane Street Project's work extends beyond physical restoration; it is a powerful act of reclaiming narrative and identity. The neglect of these cemeteries reflects broader historical patterns of racial inequality and the marginalization of African-American communities. By restoring these sites, the project challenges these historical injustices and asserts the importance of African-American contributions to local and national history. The involvement of multi-generational volunteers also fosters intergenerational dialogue and education, ensuring that these histories are passed down and understood by future generations. This initiative serves as a model for how communities can confront difficult pasts and work towards a more inclusive historical memory.
