SITE DIRECTORY
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Lebanon Cemetery (York, PA)
LEBANON CEMETERY
FOUNDED: 1872
ADDITONAL NAMES: None
AFFILIATION(S):
Pennsylvania Hallowed Grounds
HISTORY:
Founded in 1872, Historic Lebanon Cemetery in York, PA was established when the African American citizens in the area came together to purchase almost 2 acres of land to bury their families with dignity and respect. Segregated burial practices existed at the time (and continued through the 1960s), leaving the only other option for burial the “Potter’s Field”, which was overcrowded and preyed upon by grave robbers. The original 2 acres eventually grew to 5 acres over years. The cemetery reflects the diverse historical development of York; former enslaved have been laid to rest among freedmen and women and the Civil War soldiers who fought for their freedom, and men and women transcend the social barriers of life to coexist in death.
Lebanon Cemetery may be York County’s largest and oldest Black-owned cemetery.
BCN Contact Information:
Samantha L. Dorm
sdorm@friendsoflebanoncemetery.com