The City of West Palm Beach has initiated a significant preservation quest for Evergreen Cemetery, announcing the Evergreen Cemetery Preservation and Enhancement Project aimed at restoring and honoring a key historical site. The project, which spans 12 to 15 months, seeks to address issues like damaged grave markers and outdated records, ensuring that the site continues to resonate as an emblem of cultural heritage as reported by the City’s official website.
Evergreen Cemetery, established more than a century ago in 1913, serves as a resting place for numerous influential African American and Afro-Caribbean residents, now the city has pledged to uphold the cemetery's legacy through a project that will include everything from research and documentation to community engagement, and though challenges such as deterioration and limited maintenance resources have threatened the site's integrity, this multi-faceted approach aims to not only maintain but enhance the hallowed grounds.
Community involvement lies at the heart of the initiative, with plans to engage descendants and locals to shape the project's trajectory, according to Mayor Keith A. James who said, "This project is about honoring the past while safeguarding this sacred place as a cornerstone of our community for generations to come," which underscores the city’s dedication to recognizing the significance of Evergreen Cemetery in the tapestry of its history. The comprehensive project also includes mapping the estimated 1,600 gravesites, assessing the condition of grave markers, and developing short and long-term goals for preservation and improvement, as mentioned on the city's website.
Leading the preservation charge is the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, with assistance from a skilled group including the Community Planning Collaborative and experts like Dr. Alisha Winn and Jeff Moates, whose diverse competencies span urban planning and cemetery archaeology, and Leah Rockwell, Director of Parks and Recreation, expressed this honor, mentioning, “Evergreen Cemetery is not only a sacred resting place but also a powerful reminder of the resilience and contributions of our African American and Afro-Caribbean community. This initiative ensures we protect and enhance the site with the dignity and care it deserves,” as noted by the city's release.
Backed by about $137,709 from the City’s general fund, the project highlights West Palm Beach’s dedication to honoring its roots and recognizing its diverse history.
