GOOD HOPE CEMETERY

FOUNDED: 1828

ADDITONAL NAMES: N/A

AFFILIATION(S):

• Coconut Grove Cemetery Association

HISTORY:

The Good Hope Cemetery is a segregated cemetery located in Dozier, Alabama. In 1997, there were at least 173 known black burials in Good Hope cemetery. Good Hope cemetery is located across the street from the church, of the same name, on County Hwy 63. The Coconut Grove Cemetery Association is continuing to learn about the history of this cemetery.

BCN Contact Information:

Beverly Johnson

bevy3435@gmail.com

ESSIE J HANDY MEMORIAL CEMETERY

FOUNDED: 1949

ADDITONAL NAMES: N/A

AFFILIATION(S): N/A

HISTORY:

Elisha and Essie Handy came to La Fayette in 1925. They were educators and active in civic and religious activities. In 1940 their oldest son, Ralph, died from tuberculosis and was buried in the only cemetery in La Fayette for African-Americans at the time. Mrs. Handy went throughout the community asking for contributions to purchase land from Judge Grady for a new African-American cemetery. In 1949 she had her son's body exhumed and transferred to the new community cemetery bearing her name. Mrs. Handy led a prolific life. In 1945 she became the first African-American to vote in Chambers County and she was recognized as a Civil Rights leader in the area. Mrs. Handy met with President Lyndon B. Johnson and was invited to his Inauguration in 1965. Mrs. Handy privately operated the cemetery until her death in 1977. Subsequently, the cemetery was deeded to the City of Lafayette who recognized Mrs. Handy for her achievements and impact on the community. Listed in the Alabama Historic Cemetery Register on October 17, 2018

BCN Contact Information:

Albert Handy

aehandy@gmail.com