Berrytown Cemetery
Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky
Marker Inscription
Berrytown Cemetery. This cemetery became focal point for the Berrytown community, which began when Alfred Berry purchased five acres in 1874. Berrytown Cem. was purchased on June 23, 1890, by United Brothers of Friendship Lodge #83. As trustees, Lodge members maintained cemetery and, in 1902, constructed its columns and entrance gate. Presented by Jefferson Co. Commissioner Russ Maple. (Reverse) Berrytown Cemetery - Berrytown Cemetery's more than 300 burials include the Berry family, other early settlers, and several military graves. Since 1984, Berrytown Cemetery has been owned and operated by a corporation formed by area residents and continues to exemplify the traditions of African American community building. Presented by Jefferson Co. Commissioner Russ Maple.
Erected by Kentucky Historical Society
The Story
The Berrytown community began in 1874 when Alfred Berry bought five acres, and its cemetery—purchased in 1890 by the United Brothers of Friendship Lodge #83—became the settlement's focal point. Lodge trustees tended the grounds and built its stone columns and entrance gate in 1902. Among its more than 300 burials are the Berry family, early settlers, and several military graves; since 1984 a corporation of area residents has owned and cared for it.
Why it matters
The cemetery embodies the tradition of African American community-building, where fraternal lodges and families created lasting institutions to honor and sustain their own.
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Related people
- · Alfred Berry
Themes & tags
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