PLOT N OF ROSEMARY CEMETERY

FOUNDED: 1931

ADDITONAL NAMES: N/A

AFFILIATION(S): N/A

HISTORY:

In the early 1920s, Mr. Creighton donated a parcel of land to Collier County for the establishment of the county's second cemetery, named Rosemary Cemetery. Reflecting the social norms of the time, segregation extended even to burial grounds. African Americans were interred along the railroad tracks at what is now the intersection of Pine Ridge Road and Goodlette-Frank Road.

Today, there are no headstones or markers to remind the community of their presence—just a few pillars and overgrown weeds. While it is possible that wooden structures, such as crosses, were once placed to mark the graves, they have since deteriorated. It is estimated that there are eight bodies buried there, likely seven adults and one child.

Efforts are being made to honor this plot of land by establishing plans to install headstones, a botanical garden-style fence, and a historical marker. On January 28, 2025, as part of an Eagle Project, Jonathan Rodriguez presented to the Board of Collier Commissioners, requesting that they recognize the cemetery as historically significant to the community.

BCN Contact Information:

Amanda Townsend & Jonathan Rodriguez

amanda.townsend@colliercountyfl.gov