Newtown Cemetery is a historic cemetery that sits between East Kelley Street, Sterling Street, and Hill Street. The roughly 4-acre parcel has been the primary burial ground for the city's African American dead since its founding in 1869. Currently, it is estimated to hold 900 graves. Prominent African Americans of the community such as education Lucy Simms, Dr. Eugene "Doc" Dickerson, and John Cooper (member of the United States colored Troops), are buried here as well. In 2021, former Virginia state Governor Terry McAuliffe visited the SVBHP Heritage Center and walked to the cemetery to visit Lucy Simms' grave, a woman he greatly admires for her contributions to her community.
Details
City of Harrisonburg Historic Site 286-298 Kelley Street Harrisonburg, VA 22802
