Our Arklahoma Heritage: Fort Smith historic cemetery stands as a testament to local African-American history

Washington Cemetery in Fort Smith stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of the African-American community in the region.

Established in the 1940s, this cemetery provides the final resting place for many who contributed to the city’s vibrant history.

Washington Cemetery was founded in what was once the mostly rural Midland Heights section of Fort Smith.

Despite its establishment in the 1940s, the earliest recorded burial on the grounds dates back to 1913, with the grave of Gideon Richardson. This indicates that the land was used for burials even before it was officially designated as a cemetery.

The cemetery is home to over 730 burials, with more than 150 individuals born in the 1800's.

Ellen Hogue Roberson

Mary Ann "Grannie" Edwards, was 109 years old when she passed away and was buried at Washington Cemetery . Another interred individual buried i the grounds snd noted forher longevity was Ellen Hogue Roberson, who was born in January 1887 and lived to be nearly 100 years old, passing away in July 1986.

According to information found on the internet, some of those buried in the cemetery were involved in the Catcher Race Riots. The 1923 riots, which occurred in the mostly black community of Catcher across the Arkansas River in Crawford County left one man dead and sent families fleeing, many of them to central Arkansas.

Many of the early civil rights advocates in the region are also buried in the cemetery.

There are a number of US military veterans buried inside the hollowed grounds, including those who served in both World Wars, through other conflicts and all the way through to Vietnam.

Washington Cemetery holds significant historical value as it reflects the African-American experience in Fort Smith.

many of those buried here were descendants of slaves and lived through pivotal periods in the city’s history, including the Judge Parker era and the subsequent years of segregation

. The cemetery serves as a reminder of the resilience and contributions of the African-American community to the city’s development.

The cemetery is well-maintained and continues to be a peaceful and dignified resting place. A cemetery board works to ensure that the site remains clean and secure. Burials still occur in Washington Cemetery, maintaining its role as an active part of the community.

Washington Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it is a historical landmark that encapsulates the struggles, achievements, and enduring spirit of the African-American community in Fort Smith.

Washington Cemetery is situated on North 54th Street between Johnson and Virginia Streets in Fort Smith, Arkansas to the north of Kelley Highway. The site runs parallel to I49 just to the north of the Kelley Highway exit.

As efforts to preserve and document its history continue, Washington Cemetery stands as a poignant reminder of the past and a beacon of heritage for future generations.