Restoration Efforts Begin at South Asheville Cemetery

Volunteers restoring South Asheville Cemetery after hurricane damage

News Summary

In Asheville, North Carolina, restoration efforts are underway at South Asheville Cemetery following significant damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Managed by the Cemetery Remembrance Project, community involvement is crucial in restoring broken headstones and cleaning debris. The cemetery’s historical significance, tied to figures like Confederate Major William Wallace McDowell and caretaker George Avery, makes its preservation vital. The project aims to honor the memories of approximately 2,000 individuals interred, many of whom were enslaved, showcasing the community’s commitment to preserving its history.

Asheville, North Carolina – Efforts are underway to restore the South Asheville Cemetery after it suffered significant damage from the remnants of Hurricane Helene. The storm left behind a trail of destruction, evident through broken headstones, downed trees, and a general state of disarray that has disrupted the tranquil resting place of many loved ones.

Phyllis Utley, the manager of the Cemetery Remembrance Project, is spearheading the restoration initiative. She believes that preserving the cemetery is a personal responsibility, as she has ancestral ties to the site. Her connection to the cemetery is deeply ingrained, and her dedication to restoring it reflects a commitment not only to her family history but also to the broader significance of the location itself.

The cemetery has historical importance, having been owned by Confederate Major William Wallace McDowell, whose legacy connects to the area’s past. An important figure in the cemetery’s history is George Avery, a slave who was owned by McDowell. Avery served as the caretaker of the cemetery until his death, representing a poignant link between the cemetery and the lives of those interred within it.

Utley describes her experience of working among the gravestones as a source of solace, reiterating the necessity of preserving the cemetery not just for historical records but to keep the memories of those buried there alive. The site has about 2,000 individuals buried, a significant number of whom were slaves, making its restoration crucial for honoring their stories and contributions to the community.

The community has rallied around the cause, with Utley engaging high school students, various church groups, and local nonprofits to assist in the recovery and restoration efforts. This unified response highlights the commitment to honoring one’s ancestors and underscores the importance of ensuring that future generations also care for such significant historical sites.

The cleanup and restoration plan aims to address both the physical damage wrought by Hurricane Helene and the emotional impact on families and descendants. As volunteers clear away storm debris from the grave markers, efforts are being made to restore as many of the damaged headstones as possible. This task is not merely about restoring physical monuments; it also reflects a desire to maintain the legacy of those who have passed away.

Local officials in Asheville continue to address recovery efforts in response to Hurricane Helene, which has caused disruptions not only in parts of North Carolina but also in South Carolina and other affected regions. The restoration of the South Asheville Cemetery serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and respecting historical sites within the community.

Utley expresses gratitude for the community’s involvement in the cemetery’s restoration, recognizing that such dedication honors the memories of those who came before. She emphasizes that maintaining the cemetery is essential for the continuity of care and understanding of local history. All efforts are geared towards not just fixing the site but also fostering a love for history that can be passed down through generations.

The ongoing community efforts at the South Asheville Cemetery reflect a collective commitment to preserving the past while honoring the memories of those who contributed to the rich tapestry of the area’s history. As residents come together, their shared experiences and purpose can help ensure that the stories engraved in stone will not be forgotten.