Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial

More than 1,700 people of African descent were buried here during and following the Civil War, along with others who may have been laid to rest after the cemetery officially closed. Since the war, the cemetery endured many desecrations and years of neglect. Through the efforts of an advocacy group, historians, archeologists, and city officials, the cemetery again became sacred ground and now honors by name the individuals buried here and the legacy of freedom personified by their descendants. Reclaiming this place, recalling a forgotten history, and protecting the remaining graves help preserve the memory of those who struggled for freedom and the contributions they made to the city.

Alexandria, Virginia · United States