Historic Odd Fellows African American Cemetery Restoration Project

Participants will work alongside the Friends of Odd Fellows Cemetery to clear brush and overgrowth at a historic African American cemetery. Neglected for almost 50 years, the 10 acre cemetery is the final resting place of nearly 10,000 African Americans residents who lived in Winston-Salem between the 1860s to the 1980s. The cemetery itself is less than a mile from Wake Forest University’s campus, and a short walk from WFU’s athletic facilities.

The work is part of a larger effort by the Friends of Odd Fellows to restore the cemetery, and to celebrate the lives of the people buried there. Recently, Wake Forest University researchers have begun working with the Friends to begin the process of documenting and mapping the cemetery and those buried there. The work conducted by participants will help support this ongoing restoration and research effort.

No open toes or heels / sandals. Please bring a full water bottle, as there is no running water at the site. Long sleeves, pants, sunscreen, bug spray, and hats are also recommended. Bring work gloves. We have rakes & hedge clippers, but you are welcome to bring your own equipment. Tarps, clippers, rakes, and leaf blowers are welcome. If you're willing to donate those landscaping tools to the site, that's even better!

Minors - under 18 - must have parental permission. There is a waiver for participants to sign. We do not have restroom facilities or running water at this outdoor site.