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William Gaston's Veterans Headstone in Glenwood Cemetery

Google Earth William Gaston and Elias Donegan relative to Daniel and Henderson Brandon

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His wife, Jane Robinson Gaston, FindaGrave Entry

Daughter, Matilda Gaston Andrews, FindaGrave Entry

Daughter, Katonia Gaston Penney, FindaGrave Entry

William H. Gaston was born into slavery in 1835 in Madison County, Alabama. During his youth, it was illegal to teach enslaved people to read or write, but the daughter of his mistress secretly taught him to read behind the barn. This sparked a love for learning in Mr. Gaston, who seized every opportunity to further his education.When he was older, Mr. Gaston joined the Union Army in 1863, fighting for his own freedom and the freedom of others during the Civil War. He served with the 12th Regiment of the United States Colored Troops Infantry Company D, based in Nashville, Tennessee, and was honorably discharged as a sergeant major in 1866. His literacy skills allowed him to make an impact after the war as well; he returned home and became a schoolteacher, eventually becoming a principal at a day and night school located on Oak Avenue, what was the past location of St. Bartley Primitive Baptist Church. As an associate minister at St. Bartley, the oldest African American church in Alabama, he continued to serve his community.In 1883, Mr. Gaston was elected as a city alderman, serving three terms. He led the committee that recommended purchasing land for Huntsville’s first public school for Black children, which would later be named Councill High School. In addition, he served as a claim agent, helping veterans and widows secure their pensions after the war.A tireless advocate for his community, William H. Gaston dedicated his life to improving conditions for the people around him. He passed away in 1896 and was laid to rest at Glenwood Cemetery, leaving a lasting legacy in Madison County.

William H. Gaston (Block 16C Lot 37,  34.72700, -86.60297)

Huntsville was the first town incorporated in Alabama. The early cotton economy of North Alabama centered on Huntsville, and attracted planters and speculators from Georgia, Virginia, and beyond. The city served as the temporary first capital of Alabama and was of strategic importance during the Civil War. The first enslaved African Americans arrived in Madison County in 1809, the same year that public lands were sold in the area. The 1821 Census showed approximately 8,650 white adults and approximately 4,860 enslaved African Americans. The 1860 census showed a white population of 11,686 with an enslaved population of 14,573. The cultural leaders of both races often shared the same last names, with the formerly enslaved using the last name of their former plantation owners. Glenwood is the oldest intact African American cemetery in Huntsville. Glenwood is the successor to Georgia Cemetery, which opened in 1818, and was the first burial ground in the city. Portions of the Huntsville Hospital complex occupy the land formally used by Georgia Cemetery, located approximately a mile and a half to the southeast of Glenwood. The Georgia Cemetery held the graves of both African Americans and white settlers, but the area was marshy and prone to flooding. By 1820 Maple Hill Cemetery was established approximately a mile east of downtown Huntsville, and was reserved for white residents of Huntsville, leaving the Georgia Cemetery for exclusive use by the African American community. After the Civil War the neighborhood surrounding Georgia became predominately African American. By 1870, Georgia Cemetery was becoming full, with approximately 2,000 graves. The city of Huntsville decided a new graveyard was needed, and ten acres of land was purchased in the county in 1870. Some members of the African American community have indicated that emancipated blacks had no desire to be buried in what was known as a slave cemetery. The land was from the Benjamin W. Blake estate (originally part of the John Brahan Plantation), and additional acreage was added in 1875 from the W. W. Darwin family. Originally called simply the “colored cemetery,” it was renamed Glenwood at the May 9, 1901 meeting of city council. The Georgia Cemetery was officially closed the same year. In 1925, the land, privately owned, was given to Huntsville Hospital. Although the deed specifies that “the Colored Cemetery, would be … kept up by [Huntsville Hospital, Incorporated]” Huntsville Hospital buildings are now on the site, which had become a parking lot by the 1940s. There is no evidence that the majority of those interred were moved to Glenwood Cemetery. In 2021, Huntsville Hospital, at the request of Mrs. Ollye Conley, contracted with Tennessee Valley Archaeological Research to use ground-penetrating radar at Glenwood Cemetery. Research identified 27 unmarked graves in an unmarked area but found no mass interments, indicating many from Georgia Cemetery likely remain under the hospital parking lot.Municipal African American cemeteries that were created as municipal cemeteries (not those originally owned by church or benevolent associations, and later transferred to municipal ownership) appear to be quite uncommon. In discussions with the state historic preservation offices in 14 states, less than a dozen other examples were confirmed. Most African American cemeteries appear to have originated as church cemeteries, were created by benevolent or fraternal organizations, or in some cases were simply dedicated African American sections of larger municipal graveyards. There seem to have been some unique factors leading to Glenwood’s creation. First, there are no church affiliated graveyards in Huntsville. Records could not be located explaining the absence of such graveyards, but it is clear from the earliest point of settlement in 1818, the city always had a municipal graveyard. The Georgia Cemetery was not originally planned specifically for African Americans. It was only converted into a completely segregated cemetery after its site was deemed undesirable for white burials. At that point it was turned over to the African American community, but its municipal ownership was well established. This foundation was perhaps key in the natural extension of creating Glenwood for the African American cemetery once the Georgia Cemetery was filled. It is also important to note that the creation of Glenwood occurred during the Reconstruction period in Alabama (1867-1874), when African Americans had secured voting rights, and Huntsville was one of three cities in Alabama to have Freedmen’s courts, where African Americans could secure a fair trial. African Americans Daniel S. Brandon, H. C. Binford, Sr. and Burgess Scruggs all served as aldermen (Brandon was elected twice to the position) and are buried at Glenwood. The passage of Alabama’s 1901 constitution, created in part to codify white supremacy by disfranchising African Americans, altered the political landscape of the state. Historic information on the cemetery is scant. One period news article in the local African American press wrote: “The resting place of our dead should receive our attention and their memory be respected by keeping the cemetery neat and tidy. If costly tombstones and monuments do not mark the graves the well-kept sodding and shrubs show the love and devotion just as well.”In 1940 the cemetery was beautified as part of a larger Works Progress Administration outreach, within the Professional and Service Division projects of the WPA. The local newspaper listed driveways covered with stone, banks sodded, shrubbery planted, and a brick entrance added. At that time the cemetery was described as having 9.6 acres. Glenwood, and Maple Hill, both had sextons. The sextons were municipal employees charged with overseeing operations and maintenance of the cemeteries. Glenwood had its own sextons from 1879 through 1947. At that time the sexton positions of Glenwood and Maple Hill (the cemetery reserved for whites) were combined. In 1948 a group of funeral home directors asked the city to improve the cemetery, particularly the road from Clinton Avenue to the cemetery, which was in dire need of repairs. The group also requested the filling of graves and a general cleaning. Also discussed were the older sextons (cemetery caretakers) who were ready to retire, and the need for the city to hire new sextons. In the fall of 1948 the city decided to standardize grave permits for the city, and required that permits for opening and closing graves could only be issued through the clerk’s office, the same process used at Maple Hill Cemetery. The same newspaper article mentioned plans to enlarge and beautify the cemetery. However, the city felt that Glenwood was reaching its capacity and started searching for a new location for an African American cemetery about this time. In 1957 the city purchased a 15-acre cemetery, likely the old Brandontown African American Cemetery. Although the city had purchased a new African American Cemetery, Glenwood continued to be used, and is still available for family burials.

Those buried in Glenwood Cemetery have a history unlike any other in Huntsville, Alabama. An African American Cemetery founded by the city in 1870, Glenwood Cemetery is Huntsville’s oldest surviving African-American burial ground. Glenwood is the resting place of people born slaves, emancipated, and who lived out the remainder of their days in the separate-but-equal south. Buried here are people of great accomplishment, including doctors, educators, clergymen, political leaders, merchants, and artisans. Tombstones identify those who fought in America’s war, men who risked their lives in defense of a nation that denied their civil rights.No burial records for Glenwood were kept until the 1950s and there was no historical plot of the cemetery. Working with community volunteers, the Huntsville Cemetery Director, Joy McKee, coordinated a project that identified, located, and cataloged all the graves in Glenwood cemetery, many of which were unmarked. Their efforts led to the listing of Glenwood Cemetery in Alabama’s Register of Historic Cemeteries and the National Register of Historic Places.The history of Glenwood Cemetery begins with Georgia, Huntsville’s first African American cemetery established on two acres of land sold by LeRoy Pope to Huntsville City Commissioners in 1818. The site of the original Georgia cemetery is on land now occupied by the Huntsville Hospital parking garage, near the intersection of Madison Street and St. Clair Avenue. Huntsville leaders decided in 1870 to establish a new African American cemetery on the city’s western boundaries, on ten acres of land between Holmes and Clinton Avenues. As no one kept burial records of those buried in Georgia, it is unknown how many graves were moved from the Georgia cemetery to Glenwood and how many bodies remain in the ground beneath the hospital complex.The first efforts to identify and document those buried at Glenwood began in 1993 when Mrs. Ollye Conley took her students from the Academy for Science and Foreign Language to the cemetery on a search for Huntsville’s African American history. Documenting Glenwood Cemetery became a special project of the Academy, as Mrs. Conley, teachers, students, and parents used information from tombstones to research those buried there and their history. In 1996, working with the Cemetery Department, a historical marker from the Alabama Historical Association was placed at the cemetery. Mrs. Conley and her students received commendations from Presidents Clinton and Bush for their work. In order to make the history of those buried at Glenwood Cemetery more accessible, this walking tour has been created.** Over many years, Mrs. Ollye Conley, local Glenwood Cemetery historian, and many student and adult volunteers have gathered the information about the lives of those people included in the tour. Other volunteers in several organizations drafted the included profiles with the gathered information. Dr. Dorla Evans and Mrs. Penny Sumners of Twickenham Town Chapter, NSDAR, in Huntsville, organized the effort, ensured format consistency, found headstones, and uploaded the materials to this TheClio site.WE RECOMMEND THAT VISITORS PRINT OUT THE SATELLITE MAP, INCLUDING ALL STOPPING PINS, BEFORE ARRIVING AT THE CEMETERY. THIS WILL PROVIDE A GENERAL OVERVIEW OF THE HEADSTONE LOCATIONS. WHILE WALKING FROM ONE HEADSTONE TO ANOTHER, VISITORS SHOULD USE THE PRINTED SATELLITE MAP, THE LIVE SATELLITE MAP ON THE WEBSITE, AND THE SATELLITE PHOTOS AVAILABLE IN THE PHOTO SECTION OF THE ENTRY TO HELP NAVIGATE BETWEEN LOCATIONS. THE LIVE SATELLITE IMAGES ON THE WEBSITE CAN BE ROTATED TO IMPROVE VISIBILITY AROUND AND BENEATH TREES FOR BETTER ORIENTATION, OR THIS LINK MAY HELP (also available in the links section):https://earth.google.com/earth/d/1KVPHVNyIJ8UTwKCMLtLQdKn9XVuqPgUF?usp=sharingTO UPDATE ANY INFORMATION related to Glenwood Cemetery and the profiles contained here, please contact the City of Huntsville, Alabama, Cemetery Director at 256-427-5730 or MapleHill@HuntsvilleAL.gov. Donations for the upkeep of the family headstones and fencing will be gladly accepted.

There are many stewards of the Huntsville community whose graves cannot be located in the Glenwood Cemetery records. That fact does not indicate that they are not buried here. Although the cemetery is owned and operated by the city of Huntsville, records, other than plot ownership, were not created and maintained until more modern times.Glenwood Cemetery conducted a survey with community volunteers in 2015. That survey documented all the headstones and inscriptions that could be found. Some headstones may be buried. Others are broken and scattered. Some inscriptions have weathered to the point where they can no longer be read. Depressions in the ground indicate possible graves but have no visible headstones.Community stewards whose graves could not be found are included here. They reflect a thriving African American community with a special flourishing beginning in the Reconstruction era.

Stewards of the Huntsville Community (Graves Not Found) (34.7253452, -86.6015561)

Julia A. KempJulia A. Kemp, born around 1832 in Alabama, lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to her family, and community service. She passed away sometime after 1906. Mrs. Kemp was a skilled domestic servant, known for her excellent references and versatile talents. She specialized in laundering and dyeing wool goods and curtains and was sought after for her baking, preparing cakes, creams, and breads for friends and patrons.Mrs. Kemp frequently traveled to care for family members in times of illness, visiting cities such as Memphis, St. Paul, and Minneapolis. She and her husband, John Kemp, had at least seven children: six sons—Samuel, John (J. J.), Frank, Edward, Turner, and Daniel—and a daughter, Caroline. Caroline (Carrie) married a Mr. Jordon and lived in Memphis. In 1900, Mrs. Kemp was present to care for her son Edward during his final days in Memphis.John Kemp (1830–1895)John Kemp was a farmer and a deeply respected member of the Huntsville community. Known for his exemplary life, he was a faithful member of the C.M.E. Church for 40 years. Mr. Kemp passed away at the age of 65 in his home on Pump Street. His dedication to his faith and community left a lasting impression on those who knew him.J. J. Kemp (1854–1919)J. J. Kemp, one of Julia and John Kemp’s sons, was a prominent attorney in Huntsville, Alabama. He maintained his office in the White Building and was frequently recognized for his growing caseload and success in Chancery Court. Regarded as one of Huntsville’s leading attorneys, Mr. Kemp earned the trust and respect of the community.In addition to his legal career, J. J. Kemp had a background in education and farming. In the 1870s, he founded a school at Bradford’s Grove. He was also a dedicated Freemason, serving as Worshipful Master of North Star Lodge No. 92, A.F. &amp; A.M., and as an alternate delegate to the State Convention in 1900.By the time of the 1900 U.S. Census, Mr. Kemp was recorded as widowed and living with his mother, Julia Kemp. His life of service, both professionally and personally, left a legacy of leadership and dedication to his community.

The Kemp family was highly respected in Huntsville, Alabama. John Kemp was very involved in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. His headstone calls him Rev. John Kemp. He was also a farmer. Julia was a highly skilled domestic servant who traveled extensively to take care of family members when they were ill. J.J. became a prominent attorney in Huntsville.

John, Julia A., and J.J. Kemp (Block 11 Lot 70, 34.7262654, -86.6017371)

Francis R. Dovey, later known as Francis R. Davis, was a mulatto man born in Alabama around 1846. Although little is known about his parents, records indicate that his father was born in North Carolina and his mother in Virginia.According to the 1910 United States Federal Census, Mr. Davis was 64 years old and lived in Huntsville’s 4th Ward in Madison County, Alabama, where he resided with his wife, Lou A. Davis, as the head of the household. Over the course of his career, Mr. Davis worked as a college professor and eventually rose to the position of principal at his school, Sherman Industrial Institute.A respected community member and devoted Christian, Mr. Davis was described as a "thorough Christian gentleman always working for the church and its enterprises." In one of his sermons based on Psalm 119:1-36, Mr. Davis emphasized the importance of trusting in God rather than placing faith in worldly power. His powerful delivery deeply resonated with the congregation at the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of America.Professionally, Mr. Davis was highly regarded and known for his contributions to education. He was appointed, along with Miss A. Kyte and Professor Peter H. Clark, to create a daily exercise program for rural school students, a role assigned by the Madison County Teacher's Institute on March 31.Mr. Davis was involved in many civic and business activities in the community. He was the President of the Huntsville Gazette's stockholders, worked in real estate, served as chairman of a group who worked in the interest of laborers, served as a juror in federal court, was chair of the Convention of the Eighth District in Decatur, among other activities.Mr. Davis was also deeply committed to the city’s youth, especially young men, and served as President of the Young Men's Home Circle, where he played a vital role in their development and support.

Francis R. Davis (Block 7C Lot 61, 34.7262044, -86.6019318)

Charles B. (Brickle or Brickel) Brickell, Sr. (1864–1925) was born in Huntsville, Alabama. He appears in the 1867 Freedmen’s Bureau Records as a male child named "Charley Brickel" in the Register of the Sick and Wounded. On the same page, three additional individuals with the surname Brickel—Elsie, George, and Sarah Jane—are listed, suggesting they may have been family members.In 1886, Charles married Mattie Lee Bell, and the couple had two children: a daughter, Mary, and a son, Charles Jr. Sadly, records indicate that both children predeceased their parents.Charles Brickell, Sr. was well-known in Huntsville for his work in the restaurant business. His establishment, which gained recognition for its quality and atmosphere, was frequently praised in The Journal. Advertised as "the best place to go for a hot lunch, square meal, or oysters," the restaurant opened in 1895 in downtown Huntsville on Washington Street, above Neely’s store. It quickly became a popular dining spot in the area.

Charles B. (Brickle) Brickell, Sr. (Block 8C Lot 41, 34.7261638, -86.6022876)

Dr. William W. Derrick, born in Huntsville, Alabama, in 1879, was the son of Henry and Susan Derrick. He graduated from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1906. After completing his studies, Dr. Derrick worked at Knoxville College in Knoxville, Tennessee, before returning to Huntsville to establish his medical practice.Medicine ran in the Derrick family. Dr. William Derrick’s brother, Dr. Thomas H. Derrick, was also a graduate of Meharry Medical College. Sadly, Dr. Thomas Derrick passed away in 1916 in Phoenix where he moved for his health. Dr. Thomas Derrick died just three years before Dr. William Derrick’s own death.Dr. William Derrick was an active member of his community and a prominent figure in the North Star Masonic Lodge in Huntsville, which was organized in 1901. He held the lodge’s highest office in 1911. Committed to improving the well-being of others, Dr. Derrick frequently shared his expertise. At a special health-focused service at St. John A.M.E. Church, he and other professionals provided guidance on health and wellness. Dr. Derrick also supported educational initiatives, making contributions to the Tuggle Institute through Birmingham’s Sunbeam Court No. 404.Through his medical practice and community involvement, Dr. William Derrick left a lasting impact on Huntsville and beyond. He is likely buried in the family plot with his brother, Dr. Thomas Derrick.

Dr. William and Dr. Thomas Derrick (Block 9C Lot 54, 34.7263974, -86.6022975)

Fannie and Powhatan McGill were successful entrepreneurs in Huntsville, Alabama. Powhatan McGill was born into slavery in 1842 in Bedford County, Tennessee. He, along with his parents, Hamid and Matilda, and nine siblings, were likely enslaved by a family named McGill. By 1870, the young freedman had relocated to Huntsville, Alabama, as recorded in the U.S. Federal Census, which noted that a woman and a child with the surname Howard also resided in the same household.In 1874, Mr. McGill married Fannie, who was eight years younger than him. The couple had four children: William, Pearl, Gertie, and Fannie. Their daughter Fannie passed away in childhood. Gertie graduated from the State Normal School in 1889 and was a teacher in the Huntsville Colored School. The family lived in Huntsville's 4th Ward at 408 Oak Avenue.Despite being unable to read or write, Mr. McGill established a successful barbering business around the age of 40. He began on Washington Street and later moved to 124 Jefferson Street in the Chapman Building. In 1883, he showcased his skills in a cleverly crafted poem in The Huntsville Gazette, advertising a first-class shave for ten cents and a haircut and shampoo for twenty-five cents. Mrs. McGill was also a successful entrepreneur, working as a popular hairdresser and laundress for four decades. She advertised in the Huntsville Weekly Democrat, offering her services to clients at their homes for hair shampooing and styling.Mr. McGill passed away on October 6, 1911, at approximately 69 years of age. The following week, The Journal, a local newspaper, published his obituary, describing him as “one of the best-known colored citizens in the city.” Before retiring from barbering, he had been a leading figure in Huntsville’s business community and later ventured into grocery sales. His death followed a lengthy illness, and he was survived by his wife, Fannie, and their two children. Mr. McGill’s funeral was held at St. John’s A.M.E. Church, and he was laid to rest in Glenwood Cemetery at sunset on October 7, 1911.As a businesswoman, Mrs. McGill faced unique challenges; at the time, women could not open bank accounts, secure loans, or vote. Yet, with a strong reputation and a loyal clientele, Mrs. McGill built a thriving business, providing services such as hair, scalp, and nail care to the women of Huntsville. She also offered laundry services, sometimes traveling to her clients' homes. Known as one of Huntsville's most “reliable souls,” Mrs. McGill stayed busy with a steady demand for her services from the city’s elite women. In 1892, The Huntsville Weekly Democrat highlighted the positive recommendations she received from satisfied clients.For nearly 40 years, Fannie McGill’s work left a lasting impact on her community. She passed away in June 1920, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and professionalism that served as an inspiration for others in Huntsville and beyond.

Born into slavery in 1842 in Tennessee, Powhatan became a successful entrepreneur. He ran his own barbering business while his wife, Fannie, was a successful hairdresser. They both advertised their services in local newspapers in Huntsville, Alabama. No headstones can be identified in Glenwood Cemetery for Powhatan or Fannie, but Fannie is mentioned as the mother of Gertie McGill, whose headstone exists, although badly broken and repaired.

Powhatan and Fannie McGill (Block 11C, Lot 50, 34.7265989, -86.6024756)

In May 1863, the Bureau of the Colored Troops was established by the United States War Department to organize African Americans into regimental units. This initiative included both free Black individuals and enslaved people. The troops were formed into various branches, including cavalry, artillery, and infantry. During the Civil War, approximately 180,000 African Americans served in these regiments, making significant contributions to the Union's efforts.Andy Sledge was born in Huntsville in 1836 to Isaac and Cinthia Sledge. He was recruited there in September 1864 by the 40th USCT. By March of 1865 he had been promoted to Corporal. Mr. Sledge was fortunate to have spent most of his enlistment in North Alabama, garrisoning Bridgeport and Stevenson. He served in Company C of the 40th United States Colored Infantry. He mustered out at Chattanooga on 25 Apr 1866 and soon returned to Huntsville. In 1867, he registered to vote and married Carrie Winter on October 6, 1870. By 1880, Mr. Sledge lived with Carrie, three children, and two stepchildren on Henry Street in Huntsville. Mr. Sledge became a businessman, running a restaurant and lodging at Wells' Saloon in downtown Huntsville in 1895. In 1901, Andy Sledge helped form, and became the first commander of Huntsville's first African American Veterans organization. The "Old Soldier's Union" met for several years in Huntsville. His residence was on Madison Street. He passed away on December 24, 1902, and is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

Andy Sledge, U.S.C.T. (Block 7 Lot 63, 34.7265886, -86.6020771)

Born in 1857 near Harris Station in Elkmont, Alabama, Mr. Dawson came into the world just before the Civil War, likely experiencing the hardships of slavery in his early years. His father, Hector Dawson, hailed from Virginia, while his mother, Mary Hyde, was from Tennessee.Despite the challenges he faced, Mr. Dawson learned to read and write and became a strong advocate for education within his community. After the war, he married Sarah and established himself as a community pillar. His commitment to education was evident when he became president of the local school board and its auxiliary, reflecting the respect he garnered as an educated man.A newspaper article noted his efforts to improve local schools, and in 1907, The Journal reported that he returned to Knoxville College, a historically Black institution founded in 1875 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Even as an adult, Mr. Dawson was dedicated to lifelong learning. He began his career as a mail carrier in 1892, at a time when Huntsville had only four postal carriers. He served faithfully until his retirement in 1921, leaving with a pension after nearly three decades of service.Robert and Sarah Dawson had two sons, Robert D. Dawson, Jr. and Bruce S. Dawson. The couple was prudent, owning their home on Pearl Street near downtown Huntsville. However, in his late sixties, Mr. Dawson developed a heart condition. On January 4, 1926, he suffered a fatal heart attack at the age of 70. He was buried on January 7, 1926, in Glenwood Cemetery, with beautiful floral arrangements and the support of the entire community. Following his passing, Mrs. Dawson and their sons expressed their gratitude in The Huntsville Times for the kindness extended to them during their time of mourning. Robert Dawson was indeed a remarkable citizen, leaving a legacy in the city of Huntsville.

Robert D. Dawson was a beloved postal carrier in Huntsville, Alabama, known for his personal connections with the community he served. In the late 1890s, everyone recognized their postman by name, and he, in turn, was familiar with all the families on his route. During a time when letters were the primary means of long-distance communication, the postman played a crucial role in sharing both news and personal messages. He understood the significance of the letters he delivered; a telegram could signal a family tragedy, while perfumed correspondence often hinted at budding romance. As a trusted friend, he acted as a messenger of goodwill, connecting households with the news of the day.

Robert D. Dawson, Sr. (Block 7 Lot 64, 34.7266224, -86.6021152)

In May 1863, the Bureau of the Colored Troops was established by the United States War Department to organize African Americans into regimental units. This initiative included both free Black individuals and enslaved people. The troops were formed into various branches, including cavalry, artillery, and infantry. During the Civil War, approximately 180,000 African Americans served in these regiments, making significant contributions to the Union's efforts.Washington Markin, born in 1844, enlisted in the 13th Regiment, Company H of the United States Colored Infantry on October 27, 1863, and was discharged on January 10, 1866. Private Markin is honored on the African American War Memorial in Washington, D.C., the only national memorial recognizing the contributions of the United States Colored Troops and sailors during the Civil War. He passed away on July 4, 1911, and is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

Washington Markin, U.S.C.T. (Block 6 Lot 78, 34.7268483, -86.6020306)

In May 1863, the Bureau of the Colored Troops was established by the United States War Department to organize African Americans into regimental units. This initiative included both free Black individuals and enslaved people. The troops were formed into various branches, including cavalry, artillery, and infantry. During the Civil War, approximately 180,000 African Americans served in these regiments, making significant contributions to the Union's efforts.Richmond Davis, born in Alabama in 1844 to Robert and Caroline Davis, served in Company G of the 110th United States Colored Infantry. He registered to vote in Alabama in 1867, married Margaret Davis in 1882, and they had a daughter, Charity Davis. Mr. Davis died on February 5, 1912, and is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

Richmond Davis, U.S.C.T. (Block 4 Lot 75, 34.7269697, -86.6021637)

Charity Withers was born into slavery in 1812 in Virginia. She was later sold to a prominent attorney, Daniel Coleman, who brought her to Huntsville, Alabama, where she became the caretaker for the Coleman children. The Colemans spoke of her highly, saying, “She comes from good stock. She belonged to a family of Negroes who had been slaves for a hundred and fifty years, all of whom bore good character.” Charity’s devotion to the children and her nurturing spirit earned her the affectionate nickname “Mammy Charity” from the neighborhood children.Charity married James Withers, a fine man she adored. Together, they had six children: Moses, Ellen, Elmira, Julian, and Alexander, with one child lost at birth. Mrs. Withers described her husband as someone who treated her as if she were special, and he is buried by her side today. Mrs. Withers passed away on January 13, 1897, at the age of 85 due to pneumonia. Her funeral was a remarkable occasion held at the African Methodist Church, now known as Saint John AME Church. Rev. E.W. Williams led a heartfelt service, with hymns sung by the Normal Choir, filling the church with tender and sweet melodies. Her grave was adorned with evergreens and flowers, thought to be arranged by her friend, Xenia Pruitt, a decorator and caterer known for her thoughtful gestures. See a profile for Mrs. Pruitt in this walking tour.Mrs. Withers’ legacy lives on through the memories she left behind, cherished by the children and community she served. Today, her story is a testament to the strength and kindness she embodied in life.Her life was further commemorated by Maria Howard Weeden, the renowned Huntsville poet and painter, who honored Charity’s memory through poetry, ensuring that her story and character would be remembered for generations.We're always young 'till Mammy dies,But when her hand no longer liesAs once it did, upon our headWe feel that youth with her has fled.We watch her wing her way to Rest,And see ourselves upon her breast,Our young selves, cradled as of yore,Now borne from us forever more;And as they soar beyond our reach,We wave farewell to each, to each!Howard Weeden

Charity Withers was born into slavery in 1812 in Virginia. She was later sold to a prominent attorney, Daniel Coleman, who brought her to Huntsville, Alabama, where she became the caretaker for the Coleman children. The Colemans spoke of her highly. Charity was devoted to the children and nurtured them.

Charity Withers (Block 13C Lot 52, 34.72687, -86.60262)

Frances Fearn Nance was born on March 25, 1841, to parents Albert Fearn from Richmond, Virginia, and Ann Scott from Raleigh, North Carolina, who settled in Huntsville, Alabama. Their journey south was likely a challenging adventure. While little is known about Albert and Ann, their three children—Seldon, Henry, and Frances—grew up in Huntsville, a major cotton trading center in the Tennessee Valley. They would have witnessed the growth of the town to nearly 5,000 residents and seen the Huntsville Depot, now one of the few remaining antebellum train depots in the country. They likely also enjoyed The Huntsville Gazette, the city’s first successful Black newspaper.According to the 1870 census, Mrs. Nance married George Nance and was keeping house while raising their children. At that time, George was 52 and Frances was 30. Sadly, in 1881, the Huntsville Gazette reported a tragic loss for the Nance family: their two youngest daughters, Georgia, age 3, and Matilda, age 7, passed away on the same day at their grandmother’s residence, only minutes apart. Though the cause of death was not reported, it may have been a childhood illness. The newspaper remarked that “the spirit of one tarried in wait for the other, thus happily ending their earthly journey together.”Mrs. Nance also had another daughter, Ellen, who married William R. Gordon in 1888 at a festive wedding at Huntsville’s Methodist Episcopal Church, followed by a reception at the home of Mrs. F. L. Bartlett. The newlyweds soon moved to Wetumpka, Alabama.Mrs. Nance’s brother, Seldon, passed away in 1909. Mrs. Nance received a $300 life insurance payment from the Knights of Pythians of Nebraska—a significant amount at the time.Throughout her long life in Huntsville, Mrs. Nance witnessed many changes in her community and provided nursing care to friends and neighbors. During her lifetime, African American nurses faced numerous restrictions on where they could train, whom they could treat, and where they could work.Mrs. Nance passed away on January 19, 1936, at the age of 94 and was laid to rest in Glenwood Cemetery, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and service.

Mrs. Frances Fearn Nance was born on March 25, 1841 and passed away on January 19, 1936. She worked as a nurse to friends and family members. During her lifetime, African American nurses faced numerous restrictions on where they could train, whom they could treat, and where they could work. She married George Fearn.

Frances Fearn Nance (Block 14C Lot 53, 34.7268872, -86.6026129)

Thomas S. Cooper was born in 1861 to Enoch and Lucy, and as the eldest of eight children, he was well-suited to lead and inspire young people. Pursuing a career in education, he became a transformative figure for Black children in Huntsville, Alabama, during the late 1800s. He served as the third principal of the city's first school for African Americans, originally known as City School, which later became William Councill High School. The school was founded in the basement of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church) on Jefferson Street. While Thomas was principal, his wife, Annie R. Cooper, also taught at the school, making a powerful impact on students together.After retiring from education, Mr. Cooper remained a vital presence in Huntsville. He held various jobs at the post office and in a grocery store. Additionally, he served as the secretary of the Spring City Lodge Chapter of the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, one of the nation's most influential Black mutual aid societies at the time. He was also a lifelong member and secretary of the Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church.Thomas passed away in 1930 at age 65 in his hometown of Huntsville. His contributions to education and the community have left a lasting legacy, marking an important chapter in Huntsville’s history.

Thomas S. Cooper (Block 14C Lot 54, 34.7269324, -86.6026032)

In the 1870s and 1880s, one of Huntsville's prominent citizens was William Henry Pleasants. Born enslaved in Alabama, Mr. Pleasants used his natural business acumen to earn enough money to purchase his freedom from his enslaver, Wiley Schrimsher, prior to the Civil War. By 1870, at 28 years old, he was a barber in Huntsville, with a wife, Kate, and two children, William and Maggie. His personal estate at the time would be valued at approximately $9,630 in today’s currency, and his real estate holdings would be worth around $24,070.In his barbershop, Mr. Pleasants served both Black and white patrons, drawing clientele from across the community. His success made him a man of wealth and influence. In 1881, he advertised his barber shop, The Tennessee Gem, in the Huntsville Gazette, promising satisfaction to any customer who visited. He was renowned as a first-rate barber.Tragically, on Friday, February 10, 1882, he succumbed to malaria at the age of 41. Since the end of the Civil War, he had been a respected leader among Huntsville's Black residents. At the time of his passing, he held a significant position in the Immaculate Order, a fraternal organization, and was honored with a burial by its members. His funeral service took place at 2:00 pm at Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church, conducted by Reverend Jesse D. Hay and Reverend T.W. Coffee.

William Henry Pleasants, Sr. (Block 15C Lot 57, 34.7270422, -86.6026084)

Bessie L. Martin stands out as one of Madison County’s pioneering leaders in education. Born on November 4, 1874, in Huntsville, Alabama, to Neal Martin and Anna Newman, Bessie was deeply involved in her church community, where she excelled as a Sunday School teacher. In 1892, the Cumberland Presbyterian Literary Society recognized her dedication by electing her as a delegate to the general assembly in Springfield, Missouri. Later that year, she accompanied Rev. J. F. Humphrey to Kansas City, Missouri, as a representative of the Second Cumberland Presbyterian Christian Endeavor at the Cumberland Presbyterian Synod.After completing her college education at Clark University in Atlanta, Miss Martin returned to Madison County in 1895 to begin her teaching career. A local newspaper, The Journal, reported in 1900 that she was teaching language and composition at the Teachers Institute in Gurley, Alabama. Another article highlighted Miss Martin’s innovative efforts to involve parents in school activities—a novel idea at the turn of the century, yet one that was visionary and forward-thinking.In the summer of 1901, the Trustees of Central Alabama Academy appointed Miss Martin as a teacher for the upcoming school year in Meltonsville (now part of Guntersville, Alabama). A newspaper described her as “an accomplished, progressive young lady of ability and experience.” By 1904, she began serving on a committee that opened a savings account at Huntsville Savings Bank and Trust Company with an initial deposit of $56.42. The teachers planned to grow this fund and use it for the advancement of their students—a testament to Bessie’s dedication to the children she taught.Bessie remained actively involved in local education throughout her life, teaching at the Negro School, later known as the Colored School, until 1924. She passed away on August 16, 1925, leaving a legacy as an early advocate for quality education and parental involvement in Madison County.

Bessie L. Martin was a well-known pioneer leader in education in Madison County, Alabama. She received her college degree from Clark University in Atlanta, Georgia before returning to Madison County to teach. She was also deeply involved in her church community, where she excelled as a Sunday School teacher.

Bessie L. Martin (Block 1 Lot 63, 34.7272077, -86.6025890)

Charles King (C. K.) Binford (1878–1940), a native of Huntsville, Alabama, was a distinguished graduate of Fisk University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. His sister, Pearl A. Binford, also attended Fisk University. He was a talented musician and educator. C. K. Binford was the son of H. C. Binford, who served as State Grand Master of the Masonic Fraternity in Alabama and was the principal of the City School in Huntsville.Professor Binford began his teaching career as a music instructor in Jackson, Tennessee. In 1906, he traveled to Boston to complete a special music course before returning to Huntsville to teach music in the fall semester. In January 1907, he and his choral class performed a concert at Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church, which was well-received by the Huntsville community.On September 18, 1907, Professor Binford married Carrie C. Parker in Mobile, Alabama. The couple returned to Huntsville shortly after their wedding and celebrated with a breakfast hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hampton. The Binfords welcomed two children, Grace King and Paul Scott, who were christened at their home in 1910 in a ceremony attended by family, friends, and neighbors.Mr. Binford was actively involved in community and fraternal organizations. Alongside his father, he traveled to Demopolis and Tuskegee to attend Masonic Grand Lodges, where he managed the Burial Department for all Lodges and served on various committees. In 1919, he was appointed to the board of the newly established Negro Board of Trade in Huntsville. Later, in 1932, he was elected treasurer of the general executive committee of African Americans supporting the local Red Cross unit.In addition to his civic and fraternal commitments, Binford owned and operated the Royal Undertaking Company. In 1939, he successfully defended himself in a $2,500 damage lawsuit, winning the jury's decision in circuit court.Mr. Binford passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 1940, at the age of 62, at his home on Oak Avenue in Huntsville. Funeral services were held at his residence the following Sunday, honoring his life and contributions to the community.

Charles King (C. K.) Binford (1878–1940) was a distinguished graduate of Fisk University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. He was a talented musician and educator. He was the son of H. C. Binford. Mr. Binford was actively involved in community and fraternal organizations. Alongside his father, he traveled to Demopolis and Tuskegee to attend Masonic Grand Lodges.

Charles King (C.K.) Binford (Block 16C Lot 54, 34.7271406, -86.6027743)

Henry Claxton Binford, Sr., born in 1851 to Peter Binford and Amanda Clemons, was destined to be an educator. Growing up on Clinton Street in downtown Huntsville with his siblings John Henry and Sarah, he developed a passion for teaching that he would carry throughout his life. Henry taught for many years at the Colored City School, located in the basement of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church). Two of his three children later followed his path, becoming a school administrator and teacher at the same school.Beyond his dedication to education, Henry Clemons Binford was an influential leader in the community. He served as Grand Master of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masonic Fraternity (Colored) in Alabama for over a decade, following six years as the fraternity’s secretary. Known for his inspiring words, he once encouraged members to “bear the cross patiently, but also cheerfully” and to “do no harm, but instead, do all the good you can.”In civic service, Binford represented the 4th Ward on the Huntsville City Council. A devoted member of the Republican Party, he chaired both local and state committees, served as secretary of the County Republican Party’s Executive Committee, and was appointed by President Benjamin Harrison as Land Officer for Huntsville. As a spokesperson for local campaigns and a delegate to national conventions, Henry Clemons Binford made his mark on the national stage when he served as a delegate to the National Republican Convention during President Harrison’s nomination.Binford’s influence extended to journalism, where he founded The Journal, which became Alabama's most influential African American publication. Known for his writing talent, Binford’s work helped shape public opinion and provided a platform for African American voices.When he passed away in June 1911 at age 60, Huntsville lost a cherished educator and civic leader whose life of integrity and dedication set a lasting example for all. In his honor, Binford Gardens was named to commemorate his impact on the community.

H.C. Binford was a very influential leader in the Huntsville, Alabama community. He was an educator at the Colored City School at Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church, Grand Master of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masonic Fraternity, alderman for the 4th ward on the Huntsville City Council, a leader in the Republic Party, and founder and publisher of a newspaper, The Journal.

Henry Claxton (H.C.) Binford, Sr. (Block 16C Lot 52, 34.7271516, -86.6028179)

There’s nothing quite like opening your mailbox to find a letter from a loved one, a thank-you note from a friend, or a piece of good news to share with family. In Huntsville, Alabama, residents were fortunate to have the United States Postal Service served by Charles R. Donegan, a dedicated Black mail carrier. In 1895, The Journal in Huntsville noted, “Mr. C.R. Donegan, the very efficient carrier, is enjoying a much-needed rest this week.” During the late 1800s, mail carriers earned about $850.00 annually, delivering letters, cards, and often a smile to homes in the area.Mr. Donegan delivered mail when a postal card cost just a penny, while letters required only 2 to 3 cents to send. By 1863, mail had been divided into three classes, with letters categorized as first-class mail. Born in October 1858 to Elias and Sarah Donegan, Charles lived on Madison Street with his wife, Teedie S. Donegan, whom he married in 1881.Mr. Donegan’s commitment to the Huntsville community extended well beyond his work with the Postal Service. He served in the military, with his service recorded in the Official Register of the United States, which tracked civil, military, and naval personnel between 1863 and 1959. Passionate about education, he chaired a committee for the Central Alabama Academy, where he worked with his team to reach out to former students to gain support for the school.Active in his church, Mr. Donegan supported the Epworth League, a Methodist organization for young adults aged 18-35. On February 19, 1894, he sang in a church program and, that same year, participated in a debate on the rights of African Americans. Respected by the community, he was elected an officer of the Spring Hill Lodge in 1907.Through his dedication to service, his support for education, and his engagement in community and church life, Charles R. Donegan left a lasting impression on the Huntsville community.

Charles R. Donegan (Block T Lot 50, 34.7271857, -86.6029801)

Henderson Hill was born in Alabama in 1860. He married three times. He married his first wife, Puss Sledge Hill, in 1875, and she passed away in 1897. In 1900, he married Mary Ragland Hill. Later he married Emily Edith Hill, with whom he had two children, a daughter named Jany and a son named Dock.A well-respected and influential figure, Mr. Hill built a frame cottage on Holmes Street and served for several years as Sexton of the colored cemetery. He was also a longtime President of the Huntsville Benevolent Society, an organization primarily composed of women who provided care for one another in times of illness and hardship and ensured dignified burials for deceased members.In 1884, Mr. Hill became President of the Huntsville Republican Precinct Club, and in 1888, he was selected as an Alternate Delegate to represent the precinct at the Republican County Convention. In 1885, he and several other citizens organized a grand excursion from Huntsville to Iuka, Mississippi, to support the Independent Order of Immaculates.Henderson Hill passed away at his home on Church Street on May 4, 1915, and was laid to rest in Glenwood Cemetery.

Henderson Hill (Block T Lot 50, 34.727150, -86.602957)

U. S., Find a Grave Index, 1600s-Current, Ancestry.com1880 United States Federal Census; Ancestry.comHuntsville Independent (Huntsville, Alabama) Thu, Jul 17, 1884, Page 3Huntsville Gazette (Huntsville, Alabama) Sat. Apr 11, 1885, Page 3Huntsville Independent (Huntsville, Alabama) Thu, Jun 25, 1885, Page 3Huntsville Independent (Huntsville, Alabama) Thu, May 27, 1886, Page 3Huntsville Gazette (Huntsville, Alabama) Sat. May 29, 1886, Page 31900 United States Federal Census; Ancestry.comThe Journal (Huntsville, Alabama) Thu., Apr. 11, 1904, Page 31910 United States Federal Census; Ancestry.comThe Huntsville Times (Huntsville, Alabama) Thu., Feb. 27, 1919, Page 6The Huntsville Times (Huntsville, Alabama) Sun. Jul. 6, 1919, Page 51920 United States Federal Census; Ancestry.com

Levi Scruggs (1839–1919) was a prominent barber on West Clinton Street in Huntsville, Alabama, and an active member of his community. A registered voter, Mr. Scruggs was highly respected for his trade and civic involvement.In 1888, he married Maria J. Bentley, and together they had four children: two daughters, Ellen and Minnie, and two sons, Ollie and Zannie. The family lived on Rison Street, where an unusual event briefly captured local attention—a four-legged chicken hatched and lived for several hours, sparking curiosity throughout the town.Mr. Scruggs was deeply engaged in community and fraternal activities. He served as Worshipful Master of Huntsville Lodge No. 14, Independent Order of Immaculates. In 1884, he was part of the committee that organized the lodge's fifth annual picnic and street parade. The following year, he joined several influential members of Huntsville’s Black community in organizing a grand excursion from Huntsville to Iuka, Mississippi.In addition to his civic contributions, Mr. Scruggs served on jury duty, participating in the U.S. Court in 1885 and the Circuit Court in 1886.Levi Scruggs passed away in 1919 from paralysis and was laid to rest in Glenwood Cemetery. Remembered as a skilled barber and a dedicated community leader, his legacy endures in the history of Huntsville.

Levi Scruggs (Block 16C Lot 48, 34.7271254, -86.6028894)

Celia Horton Love McCrary (1867–1948) was the daughter of Amanda Jacob and Jack Percy Horton. A devoted member of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church), Celia’s family owned a large farm in the Mullins Flat area, which eventually became part of Redstone Arsenal.In 1887, she married Adolphus “Darphus” Love, who owned a large farm in Madison County and operated a store in Mullins Flat, now part of the Redstone Arsenal area. In 1917, the Loves donated—or conveyed for $5—two acres of their land to establish the Silver Hill Rosenwald School at Mullins Flat. This one-room school provided education for Black children from first through eighth grade, who otherwise would not have had access to schooling. After Silver Hill, students often continued at William Hooper Councill High School or Councill Training High School at Alabama A&amp;M, with many going on to college, becoming teachers (some at Councill High), and giving back to their communities.Celia and Adolphus had five children: Everett, Binford, Arley, Lavada, and Sophie. Tragically, Sophie died young, and Binford was lost in an accidental shooting. In honor of his late brother, Everett named his son Binford. Arley moved to Cincinnati, where she became a teacher.After Adolphus passed in 1936, Celia married Percy McCrary in 1940. When the Redstone Arsenal expansion displaced them from their land, Celia bought property near Oakwood College. In 1942, The Huntsville Times reported that the McCrarys had grown turnips weighing seven and eight pounds each.Following the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, Mrs. McCrary became one of the first six African American women in Huntsville to register to vote out of 1,370 women. These pioneering women are honored on an Alabama Historic Association marker at William Hooper Councill Park, celebrating their commitment to voting rights.

Celia Horton Love McCrary (Block 15C Lot 48, 34.7269046, -86.6027385)

Henderson Brandon and his wife, Dottie Williams Brandon, were born in Elkton, Kentucky. Based on U.S. Census records and his obituary, Henderson, a mulatto, was born into slavery around 1835. His enslaver, William Brandon, passed away in 1848. William Brandon and his brother, Thomas, were among Huntsville’s earliest brick masons and builders, arriving in the area around 1810. They were responsible for constructing many of Huntsville's first homes and the commercial buildings along what was then known as Commercial Row on Southside Square.Henderson likely learned the masonry trade from his enslaver. Over time, he earned enough money to buy his freedom. By 1870, the census listed Henderson as a brick mason, married to a woman named Katie, with seven children. His sixth child, Daniel, was born around 1865 and would later join Henderson as a business partner. Henderson, a Republican and successful businessman, registered to vote in 1867 and became actively engaged in the community.In 1875, Henderson Brandon was elected as an alternate delegate to Alabama's Constitutional Convention, a gathering that would end the Reconstruction period in the state. This new Constitution effectively dismantled federal protections for Black citizens’ rights and laid the groundwork for Jim Crow laws, which institutionalized racial segregation and disenfranchisement in Alabama.In the 1880s, Henderson’s son, Daniel, joined the family business, which then became known as Henderson Brandon &amp; Son. Together, they operated Huntsville’s most successful Black-owned business from the post-Reconstruction era through the early 20th century. Their masonry firm was responsible for constructing many of Huntsville and Madison County’s landmark buildings, contributing to the region’s transformation from a small agricultural town into a manufacturing and commercial center. Beyond their contributions as builders, Henderson and Daniel Brandon were advocates for the Black community, a courageous role in the face of the harsh restrictions of the Jim Crow era.Historical newspaper archives, particularly The Huntsville Gazette and The Journal, credit Henderson Brandon &amp; Son with constructing 11 significant buildings. Of these, three still stand today: the Baker-Helms Building at 101 Washington Street, the Humphrey Bros. Building at 112 Main Street in Madison, and the Harrison Brothers Building at 124 Southside Square. Other projects, such as the Halsey Block on Jefferson Street, the U.S. Courthouse and Post Office at Greene Street and Eustis Avenue, the Dallas Textile Mill, and the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, no longer exist, but each was once an important part of Huntsville’s architectural landscape.Henderson also formed a business partnership with James Hutchens, a white man, as recorded in a newspaper announcement of their partnership’s dissolution in 1873. The relationship between the two families remained strong, and James Hutchens' son, William, later served as a witness for Henderson’s will.Henderson Brandon passed away on January 7, 1901, and was laid to rest in Glenwood Cemetery. His legacy endures in the structures he built and in his role as a community leader who set a foundation for future generations in Huntsville.

Henderson Brandon was born about 1835 in Kentucky. He was one of Huntsville's earliest brick masons and builders, arriving around 1810 (10 years before Alabama became a state). He founded a highly successful brick masonry business that his son, Daniel, later joined. Mr. Brandon was involved in politics, being elected as an alternate delegate to Alabama's Constitutional Convention held in 1875.

Henderson Brandon (Block 15C Lot 44, 34.7269777, -86.6028451)

Daniel S. Brandon was born on November 16, 1866, to Henderson and Dottie Williams Brandon in Huntsville, Alabama. According to Daniel’s death certificate, his parents were originally from Elkton, Kentucky. When he married Ellen Scruggs on December 23, 1886, he was already a successful businessman.In the 1880s, Daniel joined his father’s masonry business, which became known as Henderson Brandon &amp; Son. Together, they owned and operated Huntsville’s most successful Black-owned business from the post-Reconstruction period through the early 20th century. Their masonry firm constructed many of Huntsville and Madison County’s iconic buildings, helping transform the area from an agricultural town into a growing center of manufacturing and commerce. Beyond their work as builders, Henderson and Daniel Brandon were advocates for the Black community, a challenging role in Alabama during the Jim Crow era.Research through historical newspapers, particularly the Huntsville Gazette and The Journal, revealed 11 structures built by Henderson Brandon &amp; Son or by Daniel after his father’s death in 1901. Three of these buildings still stand: the Baker-Helms Building at 101 Washington Street, the Humphrey Bros. Building at 112 Main Street in Madison, and the Harrison Brothers Building at 124 Southside Square. Henderson Brandon &amp; Son also constructed the Halsey Block on Jefferson Street (now demolished) and the impressive U.S. Courthouse and Post Office at Greene Street and Eustis Avenue, which was torn down in 1954. Other significant projects included the Dallas Textile Mill, which burned down in 1991, and the Cumberland Presbyterian Church on Church Street, which Daniel built in 1909 and was demolished in 2017. Daniel also constructed an addition to the William Hooper Councill School in 1908.Daniel Brandon was highly respected within Huntsville’s Black and white communities. He was elected to Huntsville’s Board of Aldermen twice—first in 1897 and again in 1901. After Alabama’s new constitution was ratified in December 1901, imposing racist voting restrictions, Daniel Brandon and Henry C. Binford became the last Black men elected to public office in Huntsville until 1988. Coming from a family of educators, entrepreneurs, artisans, and politicians, Daniel served on various city committees, including those overseeing printing and stationery, the market, and the cemetery. He was appointed a census enumerator and later received a federal government position, which led him to relocate his family to Washington, D.C.Mr. Brandon was a key leader in Huntsville’s Black community, promoting Black-owned businesses, founding organizations for Black residents, and establishing a labor union to improve working conditions and wages for Black workers. The Brandon family held strong values regarding civic engagement, especially voting rights.Daniel’s wife, Ellen Scruggs Brandon, born in 1868, was a prominent community leader and lifelong member of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church). She served as a volunteer leader for the American Red Cross and was a dedicated member of the United Sisters of Charity, a group organized by Lakeside Methodist women.Mrs. Brandon graduated from Rust Institute, a school that served Black students in Huntsville. Rust Institute was established by the Freedman's Aid Society and the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1865. She married Daniel Brandon on December 23, 1886.The Brandons had three children: Ollie, Henderson, and Lucille, who married in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1937. The family resided at 411 Pulaski Street. In 1943, Mrs. Brandon chaired the local Red Cross membership drive, collaborating with Dr. J. L. Cashin, C. K. Binford, and Leroy Lowery. As the only woman on this committee, her leadership reflected the deep respect she and her husband held in the Black business and religious community.Mrs. Brandon’s father, Levi Scruggs, a barber with a shop on West Clinton Street, was widowed early and passed away in 1919. In 1920, following the passage of the 19th Amendment, Mrs. Brandon was one of the first six Black women among 1,370 women in Huntsville to register to vote. These six women are honored with an Alabama Historical Association marker in William Hooper Councill Park.The Journal mentioned in 1900 that Mrs. Brandon traveled to Washington, D.C., likely by train, to visit friends and family. Later, in 1955, Huntsville Mirror articles noted she “motored” to New York, showing her active lifestyle even after her husband’s death.Her exact date of passing remains unknown, but her legacy of civic engagement and leadership endures. Daniel Brandon passed away on December 30, 1943, in Huntsville, Alabama, and is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

Daniel S. Brandon, son of Henderson and Kate Brandon, joined his father's Huntsville, Alabama masonry business. He was twice elected to the Huntsville's Board of Aldermen. He served on numerous city committees and moved to Washington, DC for a time with his family when he took a federal government position. His wife, Ellen Scruggs Brandon, was one of only six Huntsville Black women who registered to vote in 1920.

Daniel S. and Ellen Scruggs Brandon (Block 15C Lot 42, 34.7269407, -86.6028818)

In the summer of 1881, the Huntsville Gazette recognized Mr. Elias Donegan as “one of our most energetic farmers.” The paper highlighted his impressive harvest of 1,100 bushels of wheat from 45 acres, a testament to his hard work in Madison County—still a leading wheat-producing area in Alabama today.According to records from the 1865 census and the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands, Mr. Donegan had been enslaved as a teenager by an individual named Donegan on Randolph Street, where he worked as a wagoner. Following the Civil War, he became a free man and registered to vote in Huntsville in 1867.Mr. Donegan was deeply involved in the community and joined other African American leaders in 1882 to discuss founding an industrial college in or near Huntsville. Advertised in the Huntsville Gazette, the meeting encouraged broad participation from local churches of all denominations. Additionally, he supported the City Colored School in the Davis Grove community, addressing the educators and over 300 students with words of encouragement.His family also made frequent appearances in local social columns. His wife, Sarah Jane, and daughters Sally, Lucy, and Delia were noted in the Journal for their travels and social activities. Mr. Donegan’s passing in 1888 was followed by his obituary in the press, and tragedy struck the family again in 1892 when their young daughter, Little Carrie Eliza, died of consumption at age 10. Her obituary also published.Elias Donegan was a respected leader in Huntsville's African American community. He worked tirelessly on his farm to support his family and advocated strongly for educational opportunities for Black children in the area. His legacy remains a meaningful part of Huntsville's history.

Elias and Sarah Jane Donegan (Block 16C Lot 33, 34.7269299, -86.6030395)

Professor Samuel Johnson Bowles Carter was born on January 11, 1842, and raised alongside his sister, Mary Carter, in Bledsoe County, Tennessee. Later in life, he married Malinda, and together they had five children: Allen A., Mattie A., Ida, Samella, and Fred D. Carter.A distinguished educator and community leader, Professor Carter worked as a teacher, Associate Editor for the Huntsville Gazette and the Weekly Journal and served as assistant principal of the State Normal School in 1875. He was also a member of the Central Alabama Academy board of trustees, a devoted congregant of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church), and a real estate agent with Boyd &amp; Wellman.A dedicated Republican, he represented his party at state and national conventions. In 1895, he delivered a powerful speech at the State Normal School titled "The Causes that Lead to and the Results of the Emancipation Proclamation," which was published in The Journal the same year. Professor Carter also shared his poetic talents in the Huntsville Gazette, where many of his poems appeared.In 1896, he ran for commissioner of the 3rd District, which included Alabama's Black Belt region. By 1899, he owned a hack (horse-drawn carriage) business, known for his fine hat and excellent horses. In 1903, he served on the grand jury for the United States Court.Professor Carter passed away on February 21, 1912, and was laid to rest in Glenwood Cemetery. A notable line from his writings speaks to his enduring optimism: “There's a star to guide the humble. Trust in God and do the right. Let us do our whole duty now and here, Hope for everything, nothing fear; ... let everybody shout [and] join in the general jubilee."Malinda Carter, born around 1848 in Alabama, was the daughter of Neal and Martha Carbery (possibly Austin). She grew up with five siblings: John Reuben, Pleasant Hany, Martin, Nelson, and Milton. In 1896, Malinda received the news of her father Neal Austin's passing in Helena, Arkansas.An active member of her community, Malinda Carter contributed her time and efforts to various organizations. She was a dedicated member of the women’s society Sharon Court, where she served as treasurer and was later elected as one of its conductors. Additionally, she played a vital role on the Parsonage and Furniture Committee at Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church.Her daughter, Mattie A. Carter, also exemplified leadership, serving as the Huntsville, Alabama, agent for the Royal Benefit Society of Washington, D.C., continuing the family's tradition of community involvement and service.

Professor Samuel Johnson Bowles and Malinda Carter (Block T Lot 38, 34.72719, -86.60321)

In May 1863, the Bureau of the Colored Troops was established by the United States War Department to organize African Americans into regimental units. This initiative included both free Black individuals and enslaved people. The troops were formed into various branches, including cavalry, artillery, and infantry. During the Civil War, approximately 180,000 African Americans served in these regiments, making significant contributions to the Union's efforts.Samuel Drake was born on August 12, 1839, in Madison, Alabama, to Jasper and Nancy Drake. Besides Samuel, their children included Harriett, Henry, and Narcissa. Samuel's children were Henry and Susan Drake.He enlisted on 30 Nov 1863 in Alabama for a period of three years. He served as a private during the Civil War in Company G, Infantry 17 in the U.S. Colored Troops. Around May or June 1864, Private Drake was transferred to the Invalid Corps. On July 1864, he was transferred to Company E, 17th Infantry. His wife's headstone is north of the western curve of the top of the cemetery road in an opening behind a row of trees lining the road on the north. Google Earth cannot display the location very well but see the image attached.

Samuel Drake (Block U Lot 19, 34.7270650, -86.6034327)

Clarence C. Powers was a man who valued education, hard work, and dedication, as demonstrated throughout his life and career. His legacy portrays him as a responsible, respected community member and a devoted family man who worked diligently to support his loved ones.Born on March 19, 1875, in Alabama, Mr. Powers married Rosetta Powers in 1896. By the 1910 U.S. Census, the Powers family was established in west Huntsville, Alabama, where Mr. Powers lived until his passing in 1950. As head of the household, he resided with his wife, Rosetta B. Powers, and their three children: William H. Powers, then 12; Susan R. Powers, 8; and Bernard C. Powers, 7. Clarence owned their home, reflecting the stability he worked hard to provide.In 1911, Mr. Powers took the federal clerks and carriers’ examination. After passing, he was appointed as a mail carrier in Huntsville by President Woodrow Wilson. From 1917 until his retirement in 1948, Mr. Powers served as a dedicated mail carrier. A 1939 article in The Huntsville Times noted that Mr. Powers was the last mail carrier in Huntsville still delivering by horse and buggy, along with his trusty horse, Annie. The article recounted that Mr. Powers and Annie “travel between 12 and 15 miles twice a day to deliver the mail.” Mr. Powers remarked, “Annie knows her business. She will walk along a street on which I am delivering the mail without any direction. She moves the buggy as I move along from one house to another.” At the time, Annie was 16 years old, having been raised and trained by Mr. Powers himself.Mr. Powers’ literacy and fluency in English highlight his dedication to education and self-improvement, traits also shared by his wife, Rosetta. Mrs. Powers was a schoolteacher in Madison County for nearly forty years, underscoring the couple’s commitment to education. Mr. Powers also pursued higher education, completing between one and four years of college—a notable accomplishment for an African American man in his era.On March 4, 1950, Clarence Powers passed away at Huntsville Hospital at the age of 71. His story stands as a testament to his hard work, determination, and success as an African American man who built a stable, prosperous life for his family despite the racial challenges of his time.

Clarence Powers (Block U Lot 16, 34.7270726, -86.6035247)

Peter Chapman, an African American man, stands as a prominent figure in Huntsville's history. Born in Caroline County, Virginia, in 1794 to Iva and Clory Chapman, Mr. Chapman married Eliza, with whom he had ten children, including Brent, Peter, Jennie, Dallas, Thomas, James, Steptoe, and Bird Lee. Initially enslaved to Colonel Edmund Pendleton on his Virginia plantation, Peter likely met Eliza there. Pendleton was an influential delegate to the Continental Congress in 1774.Mr. Chapman and his family later moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where they lived on the plantation of Governor Reuben Chapman. Their Christian faith was central to their lives: Mr. Chapman served as a deacon at St. Bartley’s Primitive Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama's oldest African American church, while Mrs. Chapman contributed actively to the church’s women’s organizations under Reverend Bartley Harris's leadership.During the Civil War, Mr. Chapman was too old for regular military duty at 67. While no official regiment records exist for Mr. Chapman according to Freedman's Bank. His son, Steptoe, however, was enlisted by his enslaver, Governor Chapman, but tragically fell ill and died during his service. It is believed that Governor Chapman may have sent Mr. Chapman to tend to Steptoe during his illness.After the war and emancipation, Peter and Eliza Chapman built a life in Huntsville. They were farmers. Their home, situated a mile north of the courthouse, held a real estate value of $900, equivalent to over $34,000 today. Their son, Bird Lee, born in 1831, became Huntsville Hotel’s first dining room waiter and later served as a Baptist minister.Mrs. Chapman passed away at age 87 on September 11, 1881, with her obituary featured in The Gazette. Mr. Chapman died at 88, and he rests in Huntsville’s historic Glenwood Cemetery, where the family maintains a notable burial plot. Friends commemorated Mr. Chapman with a poignant poem in his memory:"There is no flock, however watched or tended,But has a dead lamb there,There is no fireside howsoe'er defendedBut has a vacant chair.The air is full of farewells to the dying,And mourning for the dead."

Peter Chapman held a very prominent role in the history of Huntsville, Alabama. Born on a Virginia plantation, Peter and Eliza Chapman were moved to Huntsville and lived on the plantation of Governor Reuben Chapman. After the Civil War, the Chapmans became prosperous farmers. Mr. Chapman was a deacon at his church. They had ten children.

Peter and Eliza Chapman (Block 15C Lots 28 and 30, 34.7268673, -86.6030745)

In the 1930s South, African Americans faced severe barriers to education and employment, leaving few options beyond low-paying jobs. Yet, Dr. Eugene Alexander Harris, a Black man in the early 20th century, defied these odds to lead a life of dedication, resilience, and service to his community.Born on March 24, 1893, in Bolivar, Tennessee—a small agricultural town east of Memphis—Dr. Harris was an avid learner, able to read and write at a young age, an uncommon achievement for African American children of the time. By age 17, he was already a wage-earning laborer, living with his parents, Haywood and Belle Simpson Harris, his three brothers (James, Thomas, and Hugh), and both grandmothers, Lucindy Harris and Rachael Simpson. Despite his circumstances, he was determined to pursue higher education.Dr. Harris attended Howe Institute in Memphis and Alabama A&amp;M University (AAMU) in Huntsville, where he excelled academically and was elected president of his 1914 AAMU graduating class. He then attended Meharry Medical College in Nashville, earning his doctoral degree and a license to practice as an allopathic physician, or general practitioner. Dr. Harris dedicated his medical career to serving impoverished, underserved communities across Tennessee and Alabama. In 1918, at just 25, he was drafted into military service.While his achievements as a physician were remarkable, Dr. Harris’s life was cut tragically short by a bacterial lung infection; he passed away on April 7, 1928, at the age of 35 in Tuskegee, Alabama, leaving behind his beloved parents and wife. Despite the simplicity of his grave marker at Glenwood Cemetery, Dr. Eugene Alexander Harris' legacy endures as a testament to his courage and resolve to overcome societal barriers and serve his community with dedication.

Dr. Eugene Alexander Harris (Block 15C Lot 27, 34.7268197, -86.6030692)

Dora Fackler Lowery (1886–1966), daughter of Sallie and Henry Fackler Lowery, was a distinguished community member and educator. Henry, a cook at the McGee Hotel, married Sallie in 1869, and together they built a home on Pulaski Road, raising their seven children, including Dora.According to The Journal, Mrs. Lowery attended the Normal School and went on to teach in Madison County schools in Brownsboro and Paint Rock around 1910. In 1910, she joined the faculty at William Hooper Councill School, where she continued her commitment to education. Dora married Leroy Lowery, and the couple lived at 320 Church Street, close to Mr. Lowery’s businesses, which included pool halls and restaurants. Mr. Lowery was also a leader in the community, serving on the Board of Directors of the Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Company of Chicago, Illinois—a Black-owned insurance company founded in 1919 to provide services to Black businesses.A dedicated civic leader, Mr. Lowery was treasurer of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (later Lakeside United Methodist Church) and active in youth programs. He established a Boys Club in Huntsville and led Boy Scouts at the Church Street Community Center.In 1917, Mr. Lowery married Dora Fackler, with whom he had four children. Tragically, two of their children died in infancy, leaving them with two surviving children: Joseph, who became a minister, and Doris, who worked as a teacher in the public schools. Joseph E. Lowery became the co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and was awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2009.Mrs. Lowery’s granddaughter, Patsy Harris, shared memories with Donna Castellano, Director of the Historic Huntsville Foundation, recalling how, as a child, she would bring lunch to her grandfather at the pool hall.In 1920, when the U.S. ratified the 19th Amendment, Dora Lowery became one of the first six Black women among 1,370 women in Huntsville to register to vote. Dora and India Herndon are the two Black suffragists recognized on an Alabama Historical Association marker in William Hooper Councill Park for living long enough to see the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, marking an era of change they helped pioneer.

Dora Fackler Lowery was a distinguished member of the Huntsville, Alabama community and an educator. She taught at numerous schools in the area including the William Hooper Councill School. Her husband, Leroy Lowery, was also a prominent member of the community, serving on the Board of Directors of the Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Company of Chicago, Illinois. Mrs. Lowery was one of the first six Black women in Huntsville to register to vote in 1920.

Dora Fackler (or Fachler) Lowery (Block 13C Lot 35, 34.7266562, -86.6027877)

LeRoy Lowery, born on November 23, 1884, in Huntsville, Alabama, was the eldest of two sons to Arthur and Polly Echols Lowery. He attended the Old Central Alabama Academy, a Methodist institution formerly located in Huntsville and grew up as a member of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church), where he once served as treasurer.In 1917, Mr. Lowery married Dora Fackler, with whom he had four children. Tragically, two of their children died in infancy, leaving them with two surviving children: Joseph, who became a minister, and Doris, who worked as a teacher in the public schools. Joseph E. Lowery became the co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2009.Mr. Lowery was regarded as a prominent leader and citizen of Huntsville, and his sudden passing at home on Church Street from a heart attack marked the end of a significant chapter in the community. His funeral service was held at Lakeside Methodist Church, where he was an active member.For nearly fifty years, LeRoy Lowery was a highly respected businessman in Huntsville. He ran a pool hall at 106 Holmes Street, advertised as a place of “Amusement and Recreation” with cigars, tobacco, and cold drinks. His friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere made it a well-regarded establishment.Beyond business, Lowery was deeply engaged in civic life. He served on the Board of Directors of the Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Company of Chicago, Illinois, for thirty-five years and was the founder of the "Clothe-A-Child" Club, which provided clothing for children in need. He was also on the Board of Directors of the Church Street Community Center, served as a dedicated leader in the local Boy Scout program, and championed the establishment of a Boys Club in Huntsville.Mr. Lowery was also Secretary of the North Alabama Colored Fair Association (NACFA), which aimed to promote the achievements of the Black community. As noted in an early announcement, the fair—held after the Tennessee Valley Fair from October 14 to 17, 1908—was “an industrial enterprise fostered by our white friends to whom we are grateful” and worked to “raise the standard of excellence and accomplishments among our own people.”LeRoy Lowery passed away on June 10, 1956, leaving behind his wife, Dora F. Lowery; his son, Rev. J. E. Lowery; his daughter, Doris L. Powell; five grandchildren; and his brother, Richard T. Lowery of Chicago. His legacy lives on through his contributions to Huntsville’s community, business, and civic life.

LeRoy Lowery was born in Huntsville, Alabama in 1884 and educated at the Old Central Alabama Academy. He and his wife, Dora Fackler Lowery, were prominent members of the Huntsville community. He ran a pool hall for many years. Besides business success, Mr. Lowery was very engaged in civic life, including helping children in need, and helping the Black community become more successful in business.

LeRoy Lowery (Block 13C Lot 36, 34.7266709, -86.6027985)

Mrs. Xenia Pruitt was renowned for her exceptional baking skills, warm hospitality as a caterer, and lively spirit. Together with her daughter, Mrs. Addie Douglas, she brought joy and warmth to gatherings, filling the air with the aroma of delicious foods and the ambiance of true Southern hospitality.Mrs. Sue Weeden operated a popular restaurant on West Holmes Avenue, initially preparing the food in her home. As Mrs. Weeden aged, Mrs. Pruitt stepped in to keep the restaurant thriving, preparing dishes from her own kitchen on Madison Avenue. Visitors traveled from near and far to enjoy Mrs. Pruitt's cooking and gracious service. Her pastries, especially, became the sought-after treats for after-dinner desserts, and she was frequently recommended to prepare meals for well-known officials and notable guests passing through the state.Mrs. Pruitt’s passion for baking led her to compete in the Birmingham State Fair baking contests in 1890 and 1891, following years of winning awards in local competitions. Notably, she catered the celebration party for Lily Flagg, William Matthews’ prized cow, which won the grand prize at the 1892 Chicago World’s Fair as the greatest butter producer.A devoted member of the Primitive Baptist Church, Mrs. Pruitt’s funeral was attended by Elders Elias Patton and Felix Jordan, honoring her legacy of service and community.Mrs. Pruitt’s life added a rich flavor to Huntsville’s history. Her contributions to the culinary and social life of her city left a lasting, “sweet taste of love” in the hearts of many.

Xenia (or Zenia) Pruitt (Block 13C Lot 38, 34.7266709, -86.6027776)

Mary Wood Binford (1874-1955) was born in Montgomery, Alabama to Lucy and Perry Woods. Her father was a brick mason. She was an 1897 graduate of Howard University, a member of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church) and a teacher at that church’s school that became the William Hooper Councill School. The Councill School was the first public school for African Americans in Huntsville and was named for the founder of Huntsville’s Alabama A&amp;M University, a historically Black university.Mary Wood was in Washington, D.C. when Mary Church Terrell, Ida B. Wells, and Margaret Murray Washington formed the National Association of Colored Women, an organization whose purpose was to uplift African American women and families. It was an umbrella organization for local clubs to work together on causes important to the African American community, including women’s suffrage, anti-lynching legislation, and Jim Crow laws. The Association’s founding principle, “lifting as we climb,” encouraged successful African American women to take on leadership roles and spearhead reform in their local communities. It is likely Mary became acquainted with women's suffrage and its importance to the success of the African American community during her time at Howard University.Mrs. Binford married Henry Connard Binford, Jr., also a Howard University graduate, in Montgomery, AL in December 1899. Mr. Binford was born in 1874, the son of Frances Ann Hendley and Henry C. Binford, Sr., one of Huntsville's most influential African American families. After graduating, Mr. Binford, Jr. taught briefly in Huntsville at the Councill School. Then he and Mrs. Binford moved to Kansas and Baltimore, Maryland, where Mr. Binford accepted positions at schools. The family returned to Huntsville in 1908, when Mr. Binford, Jr. accepted the position as principal at the Councill School. Mr. Binford, Jr. died in 1919.The Binford children were all educated at Howard University. Dr. Claxton Perry Binford was a medical doctor who received his medical degree from Meharry Medical School in Nashville, TN. The Rev. Elmer C. Binford became the principal of West Madison Junior High School. Mrs. Ruth Pearl Binford Carter became an instructor at Alabama A&amp;M University. There were also Dorothy Binford Jeffries and Henry F. Binford.Mary Binford is mentioned on the historic marker for the Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church, as having started the Annual Harvest Cultural Festival in 1901. In 1920, the U.S. adopted the 19th Amendment granting women the vote. Out of the 1,370 women in Huntsville registered to vote in 1920, there were six African American women. Mary Binford was one of them. The six women are recognized on an Alabama Historic Association marker placed in William Hooper Councill Park.Henry C. Binford, Sr. served as an early principal of the school founded at Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church. He was the owner of the newspaper, The Journal, and a leader of the Masonic Order. Voters elected Henry C. Binford, Sr. to two terms as City Alderman, representing the 4th Ward. The Binfords lived near the current location of the Huntsville Madison County Public Library.Mary Wood Binford remarried Mr. R. L. Jordan. She died in 1955. She was funeralized at Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church and buried at Glenwood Cemetery.

Mary Wood Binford Jordan was a very well-educated woman. Born in 1874 to Lucy and Perry Wood, she graduated from Howard University and taught at the William Hooper Councill School, the first public school for African Americans in Huntsville. She married Henry Connard Binford, Jr. in 1899. After her husband died, she married Mr. R.L. Jordan. She died in Fayetteville, Tennessee but is buried in Glenwood Cemetery with her first husband.

Mary Wood Binford Jordan (Block 13C Lot 41, 34.7267242, -86.6027079)

James R. Stephens, a World War I veteran, departed for Brest, France on February 22, 1919, aboard the transport ship Aquitania. As a Sergeant, he served in the United States 366th Infantry Company B, 92nd Division. Born in Alabama in 1893, his mother was Callie Jones. Mr. Stephens is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

James R. Stephens (Block 12C Lot 36, 34.7265919, -86.6027425)

Burgess E. Scruggs was an American physician, alderman, and civic leader in Huntsville, Alabama. He was one of Alabama's first African American doctors, and the first in Huntsville. He served four terms on Huntsville's city council.Dr. Scruggs was born on October 16, 1860, in Madison County, Alabama. He was enslaved at his birth by the Thomas Sanford McCalley family. His Black family was Christian. After being freed after the American Civil War ended, he attended school and graduated from William Hooper Councill High School.Scruggs attended Central Alabama College in Birmingham, Alabama, and Central Tennessee College (now Walden University) in Nashville; before graduating from Meharry Medical College in 1879, a private historically Black medical school in Nashville.Dr. Scruggs returned to Huntsville after graduation and opened a private medical practice at 316 W. Holmes Street. Other early Black doctors in Alabama at this time included Arthur McKinnon Brown of Birmingham, Halle Tanner Dillon Johnson of Tuskegee, and Cornelius N. Dorsette of Montgomery.In 1881, Scruggs and Sophia J. Davis married. After her death in 1919, Dr. Scruggs and Harriet T. Humphrey married in 1923.Scruggs served four years as city alderman for Huntsville from 1892 until 1896. He also served as a trustee for the Rust Normal School, was president of the Black Fair Association, and served on the U.S. Board of Examiners, and Board of Pensions.Scruggs died after an illness on January 21, 1934, at his home in Huntsville, and is buried at Glenwood Cemetery in Huntsville.Sophia J. Davis Scruggs was a distinguished educator and community leader. She was a graduate of Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she excelled academically. She dedicated her life to education, held leadership roles in the Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church, and was a founding member of the Eastern Star, a Masonic appendant body.Together, Dr. and Mrs. Scruggs were prominent landowners in Huntsville, holding properties across the city, including a sizable farm.Newell Scruggs was their only child. Born on July 31, 1895, Newell Scruggs followed in his family’s tradition of education and achievement. He began his studies at Walden University in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1911, pursuing academic excellence. On July 31, 1926, he married Florence Somerset of Cuyahoga, Ohio, marking the start of their life together.Newell Rison Scruggs passed away on April 3, 1941, and was interred at Highland Park Cemetery in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. His life reflected the values of education, community, and perseverance instilled by his accomplished parents.

The Scruggses were prominent members of the Huntsville, Alabama community. Burgess was a physician and well known as a leader in political and civic affairs. Sophia Davis Scruggs was a distinguished educator and community leader. Newell Scruggs, Burgess and Sophia's only child, became prominent in Ohio after he completed his education.

Burgess, Sophia, and Newell Scruggs (Block 12C Lot 31, 34.726513, -86.6027587)

India Leslie Herndon (1891–1989) was an influential educator and community member. She was deeply involved with Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church (now Lakeside United Methodist Church) and served as a teacher in Gurley and Hollywood, Alabama. Mrs. Herndon also played a key role in organizing professional development for educators through the Madison County Teachers Institute, which brought together Black teachers from across Madison County for training sessions held at Councill School. These gatherings often opened with addresses by community leaders, including Henry C. Binford, Jr., and featured Mrs. Herndon singing in a quartet.In 1916, India married A.J. Herndon, a postal clerk for the railroad. The Herndons also owned and operated Citizens Drug Store, and their family home on Oak Street later became the site of Kay's Cupboard Antiques and two restaurants before its eventual demolition. India and A.J. had two children, Charles Leslie and Evangeline, who grew up in a community-minded household.A.J. Herndon was actively involved in several businesses and Huntsville Charities, an organization that raised funds to support Black families in need. After his passing in 1943, Mrs. Herndon continued to leave her mark on the community, living a long life of service until her passing in 1989.India was one of the first Black women in Huntsville to register to vote after the 19th Amendment granted women suffrage in 1920. Out of 1,370 women who registered, only six were Black, and they are all commemorated on an Alabama Historic Association marker at William Hooper Councill Park. Mrs. Herndon, along with Dora Lowery, lived to witness the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, securing voting rights for African Americans nationwide.Her grandson, Herndon Spillman, remembers the family legacy fondly, recalling his grandmother and Dora Lowery singing together at Lakeside Methodist Church. He also spoke of his grandfather’s commitment to his work as a railroad mail clerk, sharing that A.J. consistently scored in the high 90s on annual certification exams. The Herndons' home, located near Big Spring Park in downtown Huntsville on what was once Oak Avenue (now Fountain Row), stood as a cherished landmark, reflecting their life of dedication to family, community, and education.Mrs. Herndon lived to almost see 100 and her lovely home was just a stone’s throw away from Big Spring Park in downtown Huntsville.

India Herndon Dixon was a respected educator and community leader in Huntsville, Alabama. She taught in several schools in the area and helped to provide teacher training programs at the William Councill School in Huntsville. Mrs. Herndon was one of the first six Black women who registered to vote in 1920. After her husband, A.J. Herndon, died, she married Mr. Dixon. Her name on her gravestone is India H. Dixon, making it difficult to recognize the better-known India Herndon.

India Leslie Herndon Dixon (Block 13C Lot 22, 34.726602, -86.6030102)

Cash Mosby, born in Kentucky in 1851 to parents also from Kentucky, was described in the 1910 census as "mulatto," a term then used for people of mixed Black and white ancestry. This term is outdated today and may be considered offensive.Mr. Mosby was a skilled self-promoter, as evidenced by various newspaper articles from the time. By age 36, he had earned the nickname "Captain Cash Mosby" or the "Boss Excursionist." In modern terms, Mr. Mosby was a travel organizer, promoting popular train excursions to destinations throughout the South. At 40, he led one of the largest excursions from Huntsville to Chattanooga, transporting 400 passengers. That same year, he arranged another major trip from Corinth, Mississippi, to Chattanooga, providing locals an opportunity to visit friends before the season's end.Beyond his role in travel, Mr. Mosby also managed performers, notably "elocutionists" who combined dramatic or poetic recitations with music, a novel entertainment style at the time. In 1892, he organized a performance at the Huntsville Opera House, which the Huntsville Gazette praised as a "rare literary treat." Sadly, the Opera House was destroyed in a fire in 1911.Around the age of 52, Mr. Mosby married Carrie Mosby, significantly younger than he, and they had two sons, James H. and A.R., and two daughters, Mrs. W.C. Thomas and Mrs. John Sims. Tragically, in 1909, their son James H. Mosby passed away from typhoid fever at 32, leaving behind a widow as well as his family.By 1910, Mr. Mosby was 59 and lived with Carrie, then 37, on Gordon Street in Huntsville. He owned their home outright and worked as a Commission Agent for the Southern Railway Co., likely a continuation of his previous work promoting travel. An advertisement for one of his trips in 1911 offers a glimpse of his excursions:“… I will operate a special train from Huntsville to Birmingham. Accommodations for both white and colored. $2.25 for the round trip. The train will leave Huntsville Thursday morning, July 27, at 8:30 am sharp, arriving in Birmingham at 4:00 pm. Returning train will leave Birmingham Friday evening, July 28, at 9:00 pm.”Cash Mosby passed away on March 10, 1916, in Huntsville from acute indigestion at age 65. He is remembered as a successful, influential figure and is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

Cash Mosby (Block P Lot 15, 34.7264832, -86.6031076)

Lucian Jones was born about 1848 in Alabama. His occupation was listed as laborer and blacksmith. He could not read or write, as was true for many Black and white people in the South. When Lucian was 22 years old, his household members numbered 11 people, ranging in ages from 95 to baby. Lucian Jones lived at 414 Pelham.The Huntsville Gazette recorded Mr. Jones’ involvement in politics. He was appointed Registrar of the 4th Ward by Mayor William T. Hutchens. His task was to enroll qualified electors in his ward. A notice was sent out that electors would be selected from the 4th day of March 1889 to the 27th day of March 1889. The selection would be held at Mr. Jones’ store on Madison Street in the 4th Ward. The U. S. Circuit Court for the Northern District reported in March 1889 that Petit Jurors drawn for the Spring term would convene on the first Monday in April and included four men from Huntsville—A. F. Hall, George L. Davis, Lucien Jones and J. M. Hutchens from Huntsville. A city election listed in the Huntsville Gazette reported that Mr. Jones was elected to the Board of Aldermen from the 4th Ward of Huntsville. Other candidates running against him were: W. C. Binford, Alderman Charles Ware, and Charles R. Donegan.The Huntsville Telephone Exchange was in operation in 1896 and Robert A. Moore was the manager. There were 120 subscribers listed and two pay stations. The only outside connections were Wyeth City (near Guntersville), Morgan County and Whitesburg in Madison County. The 1896 telephone directory listed the “Who’s Who in the Huntsville Business Circles 28 Years Ago,” and Mr. Jones was one of those nominated for the honor.The Huntsville Gazette on April 1893 advertised blacksmith shop where Mr. Jones worked. The Blacksmithing Headquarters, established by C. L. Jones, Jr., ran a well-established blacksmith shop at Reuben Jones’ old stand at the west end of Clinton Street on Triana Road. It was advertised that ‘All kind of black smith’s work including repairing and wood work, horse shoeing, etc. was done neatly, promptly and in the best workmen-like manner at the lowest prices.” Mr. Jones said, “I invite the public patronage and guarantee satisfaction.” On August 22, 1901, The Journal advertised C. L. Jones, Boot and Shoe Maker, where repairing by Lucian Jones was neatly done and all work was guaranteed.The Huntsville Weekly Democrat announced the death of Mr. Jones on Tuesday, March 27, 1917. He was described as the “well-known colored blacksmith who died at his home, in the west end after a lingering illness.” The announcement said that “Lucian Jones will be missed by both his white and colored friends. He was known to be polite, thrifty, and work hard.”

Charles Lucian Jones, known as Lucian Jones, was very active in the Huntsville Community. His official profession was as a blacksmith and laborer, but he became very involved in political activities. He served as an alderman for the 4th ward in Huntsville, served as Voters Registrar, and served as a juror in Circuit Court.

Charles Lucian Jones (Block 9C Lot 23, 34.7261854, -86.6026661 )

Reverend Elias Patton spent much of his 68 years on this earth leading and caring for others, preaching the Word of God. The local paper, The Huntsville Times, announced at his death in 1916 that he was “one of the best known colored citizens in the county” and that “he was liked by both white and colored.” Elder Patton was married to Frances Patton and had two children, Emma and Edward.Reverend Eli Patton founded the original Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church in Triana in 1878. Later, he served as pastor of St. Bartley’s Primitive Baptist Church in Huntsville, a role he held for many years. St. Bartley’s is the oldest African American congregation in the State of Alabama and is one of the oldest African American congregations in the United States. Reverend Patton’s far-reaching legacy derives from his service as Moderator of the Indian Creek Baptist Association and nationally as Treasurer of the National Association of Colored Primitive Baptists. His sermon in 1908 from Timothy, first chapter, ninth verse, “Who has called us, not to our own work, but according to His holy purpose” a message ending one of the meetings of the National Association’s Second Convention encouraged more than 1,500 people who attended that day.The Indian Creek Baptist Association was one of the largest in the United States. At times as many as 10,000 members from around the south were in attendance at regional meetings held in this area. As moderator, Reverend Patton was recognized with special honors and given great respect by other elders and members of the church. He also led the effort to secure land and build a memorial building, the home of the publicity department and executive offices for the National Association of Colored Primitive Baptists.In addition to his church duties, Rev. Patton served on the Grand Jury for the Federal, District, and Circuit Courts in 1881. In 1883, he was elected School Trustee for the township of Triana, Alabama. Reverend Patton served as president on the Board of Trustees of the Huntsville Graded and Industrial School, helping to establish the school, secure the land. Alongside these responsibilities, he worked full-time for 25 years at the U.S. Courthouse and Post Office in Huntsville, where he served as janitor, and later head janitor. His business, The Herald Publishing Company, opened doors and spread knowledge to many in and outside the community. The primary, intermediate and higher grades of the Colored Primitive Institute, opened in 1894 under his leadership.Reverend Patton’s funeral, held at St. Bartley’s Primitive Baptist Church, was attended by preachers from three states, a testament to his far-reaching impact. His obituary praised him for his “life of busy activity, working always for the betterment of his race and the cultivation of a thorough understanding between the white and colored people.” Reverend Patton was survived by his wife and children. The Huntsville Gazette commended his work, ability and character.

Reverend Eli Patton founded the original Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church in Triana in 1878. Later, he served as pastor of St. Bartley’s Primitive Baptist Church in Huntsville, a role he held for many years. St. Bartley’s is the oldest African American congregation in the State of Alabama. In addition to his church duties, Rev. Patton served on the Grand Jury for the Federal, District, and Circuit Courts in 1881. In 1883, he was elected School Trustee for the township of Triana, Alabama. Reverend Patton served as president on the Board of Trustees of the Huntsville Graded and Industrial School, helping to establish the school, secure the land.

Elias Patton (Block 7C Lot 21, 34.7259259, -86.6024903)

In 1855, Mack Harris was born in Kentucky, likely into a family enduring the hardships of slavery. After the Civil War, as a free man, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a member of Troop H in the 10th Cavalry Regiment, proudly serving as one of the renowned Buffalo Soldiers—a source of honor for him, his family, and his community. Harris, who enlisted initially in 1871 and again in 1897, began his service as a private and rose to the rank of corporal. He completed his honorable service in 1901.The motto of the 10th Cavalry, "Ready and Forward," guided Corporal Harris and his regiment. In 1898, the Buffalo Soldiers deployed to Cuba for the Spanish-American War, where they fought courageously alongside Teddy Roosevelt during the famed charge up San Juan Hill.After the war, one of the four Buffalo Soldier regiments returned to the U.S., initially stationed in New York before relocating to Huntsville, Alabama, on Monte Sano Mountain. There, they recuperated from yellow fever, war wounds, and other illnesses contracted in Cuba. Following an incident between Black and white soldiers, the African American troops were reassigned to what is now known as 10th Cavalry Hill, named by the local community. The Buffalo Soldiers camped under the leadership of the notable General John "Black Jack" Pershing.Today, a memorial statue stands proudly at 2800 Poplar Avenue in Huntsville, depicting Sergeant George Berry, a Buffalo Soldier of the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments, atop his horse and holding the regimental flag—a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers.While in Huntsville, Corporal Harris married Miss Annie Gray (her grave is near his) in January 1899. They briefly resided at Fort Clark in Kinney, Texas, before returning to Huntsville, where Corporal Harris worked for a paving company. The couple owned their home and the adjoining lot at 122 Miller Street, where Mrs. Harris’ father and Corporal Harris's mother, Hester Buford, also lived. The couple, however, appears to have had no children.After Corporal Harris' passing on October 21, 1936, Mrs. Harris applied to the U.S. War Department for a headstone to mark his grave at Glenwood Cemetery. Annie Gray Harris passed away in 1950, leaving a legacy intertwined with the history and honor of the Buffalo Soldiers.

Corporal Mack Harris (Block F Lot 15, 34.7254869, -86.6023494)

Major DriscollMajor Driscoll, born around 1842 in Madison, Alabama, was the son of Terry and Margaret Driscoll. Freedman's Bank records indicate they were enslaved on the Parson Turner Plantation. He signed a contract through the Freedman’s Bureau with Daniel Darwin for two years of labor in exchange for wages and rations. Mr. Driscoll enlisted in Company I of the 15th Regiment of the United States Colored Infantry. He also served as a private in Company G, 101st Infantry.Mr. Driscoll married Laura Wallace in Madison County, Alabama on 01 Dec 1884. In 1913, Mr. Driscoll was a laborer living at 318 Oak Avenue in Huntsville, Alabama with his wife, Laura.Archie EldridgeArchie Eldridge was born in Buckingham, Virginia about 1819. A Civil War veteran, he enlisted on February 1, 1864, in Nashville, Tennessee. He joined the 15th Regiment, United States Colored Infantry Company K, and was later enlisted in the 101st Regiment, United States Colored Infantry Company G. Private Archie Eldridge served in various roles, including as a teamster (horse handler) and cook, and is commemorated on the Civil War Memorial. He was discharged from the military due to disability (old age).William HobbsWilliam Hobbs enlisted in the United States Army Company C. At fifty years old, he made a deposit in the Freedman's Bank in Huntsville, Alabama. His parents were Clinton and Linsey Hobbs, and he had four siblings: Lisa, Margaret, Arthur, and Wesley. William and his wife, Margaret Hobbs, had three children: Mary, Joseph, and Julia Ann. In 1867, Mr. Hobbs registered to vote, alongside many recently freed African American men.Wesley JonesWesley Jones was a member of the 10th Cavalry Troop I, famously participating in the charges on El Caney and San Juan Hill. He was stationed at 10th Cavalry Hill in Huntsville, Alabama in January 1899 and later promoted to sergeant at Fort Ethan Allen, Vermont. Born in Madison County, Alabama in 1856 to Jefferson and Lee Ann Jones, Mr. Jones’ grandparents, Harry and Judy Jones, lived on the Widow Jones plantation in New Market. Mr. Jones was married to Titia Jones.John W. PleasantsJohn W. Pleasants, born in Huntsville, Alabama, in December 1891, was the son of Reverend Henry and Lucy Pleasant. His siblings were John W., Robert, Henrietta, and Minnie. In 1917, Mr. Pleasants was ordered to report for military duty in Madison, Alabama, and was sent to Camp Dodge in Iowa to serve in the United States 366th Infantry. However, on January 25, 1918, he was discharged from the military, along with six other men, due to physical limitations.In the 1900 census, at age 9, he was noted as having been a student for three years. John’s father worked as a drayman, delivering goods around town, and the family rented a home on Franklin Street. His mother, originally from Virginia, had spent some time living in Alabama. The family likely attended the wedding of Henry’s sister-in-law, Miss Letha Ann Rice, to Mr. John Malone, which was officiated by Reverend William Fletcher and highlighted in the social column of The Journal on February 28, 1896.Peter SawyerPeter Sawyer, born in Williamson County, Tennessee in 1845, was the son of Moses and Mary Sawyer, who were enslaved on Dr. Fearn's plantation. Mr. Sawyer enlisted in Company B of the 44th United Colored Infantry. He married Caldonia Sawyer and is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.Mordecai SteeleMordecai Steele enlisted in Company H of the 15th Regiment of the United States Colored Infantry. He actively participated in the Old Soldiers Union, which supported Civil War veterans. Mr. Steele is honored on the African American Memorial in Washington, D.C., the sole national memorial recognizing the contributions of the United States Colored Troops and sailors during the Civil War. His wife was Susan Steele.Squire (Esquire) TaylorSquire (Esquire) Taylor, born in Alabama in 1841, married Lydia Taylor and had ten children, seven of which are: Monroe, Lee, Charly, Percy, May Fany, Squire, and Pea Taylor. He enlisted in Company H of the 125th United States Infantry. Private Taylor died on July 6, 1923, and is also buried in the historic Glenwood Cemetery."Squire Taylor, aged eighty-nine years, one of the pioneer negroes of Madison county, died Friday night at 8 o'clock at his home on the lower end of Madison street. He leaves a wife, six sons, four daughters, and a large number of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great, great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held today and interment will be made in the colored cemetery."William Wallace SkillenWilliam Wallace Skillen served with the 110th Regiment, Company D of the United States Army during the Civil War. Born in Madison County, Alabama in 1840, he was the son of Derry and Sally Skillen. Mr. Skillen had seven siblings: Jesse, Dolphus, Lewis, Alex, Ann, Manda, and Mary. He married Ann Woodring Skillen and passed away in December 1890 in Huntsville, Alabama. There is no evidence he is buried in Glenwood Cemetery but his service deserves his inclusion in the U.S.C.T. list.

In May 1863, the Bureau of the Colored Troops was established by the United States War Department to organize African Americans into regimental units. This initiative included both free Black individuals and enslaved people. The troops were formed into various branches, including cavalry, artillery, and infantry. During the Civil War, approximately 180,000 African Americans served in these Union regiments, making significant contributions to the Union's efforts.Please see the internet links for more information about the U.S.C.T.Several soldiers in the U.S.C.T. have their own profiles because they have identifiable headstones. These include Richmond Davis, Samuel Drake, Washington Markin, Andy Sledge, and James. R. Stephens. However, no headstones can be found for many of the soldiers who served in the U.S.C.T. Therefore, the profiles for the unfound soldiers are provided as a group and associated with a single pin on the Glenwood Cemetery map.

United States Colored Troops Without Headstones 

Here, on these hallowed grounds of historic Glenwood Cemetery, lies the resting place of Mary Allen. Born in 1805, Mary was enslaved in Huntsville, Alabama. By around 1825, she had become known in the community for her exceptional cooking skills. Mrs. Allen married twice in her life, her first husband being Peter Allen, a free man of color from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, who journeyed to Alabama under unknown circumstances. Peter Allen came from a prominent family—his father, Bishop Richard Allen, was the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.In late October 1835, Alabama newspapers, including the Huntsville Southern Advocate, published calls for Alabamians to support the fight for Texas independence. This call to arms led to the formation of a volunteer company organized by Capt. Peyton S. Wyatt in Huntsville, which included Peter Allen, a skilled flutist who joined as a musician.As the company departed for Texas on Sunday, November 8, 1835, Peter Allen was among the volunteers. Tragically, he was captured along with other soldiers at Goliad, Texas. At the infamous Goliad Massacre on Palm Sunday, March 27, 1836, Peter was reportedly ordered to play one last song, "Home, Sweet Home," on his fife. He was told he would be freed if he did so. His courageous final words to the Mexican commander were, "No, I'll not play, but I'll just go along with the rest of the boys." He was executed alongside his fellow soldiers by the Mexican Army under General Santa Anna and buried in a mass grave at Goliad.After his death, Peter's siblings in Philadelphia (Allen, Sarah Wilkins, and Mary Adams) claimed his heirs' rights, securing 4,036 acres of land in Texas due to Peter’s service. When Mrs. Allen proved her marriage to Peter and filed her own claim, the Philadelphia heirs contested, leading to a long legal battle that reached the Texas Supreme Court. Ultimately, the court upheld Mrs. Allen’s rightful claim, dismissing the objections from the Philadelphia heirs.Mrs. Allen later married John Cook, who preceded her in death. She spent the remainder of her life in Huntsville, Alabama, where she passed away around 1885 at the age of 80. Her life’s journey, from enslavement to defending her rights as Peter Allen’s widow, is a testament to her resilience and strength.Peter Allen is buried in Goliad, Texas. No gravestone could be found in Glenwood Cemetery for Mary Allen Cook.

Glenwood Cemetery: Walking Tour of a Historical African-American Cemetery

William H. Gaston (Block 16C Lot 37, 34.72700, -86.60297)

Introduction

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Additional Information