Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial (Entrance Marker)

Here follows the inscription written on this roadside historical marker:

Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial
The Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial is dedicated to honoring more than 1,700 people of African descent buried here during and following the Civil War, as well as those who may have been laid to rest after the cemetery officially closed.

Since the war, the cemetery has endured many desecrations and years of neglect. Through the efforts of an advocacy group, historians, archeologists, and City officials, this place again became sacred ground and now honors by name the individuals buried here and the legacy of freedom personified by their descendants.

By reclaiming this place, recalling a forgotten history, and protecting the graves that remain, the memorial ensures that we remember those who struggled for freedom and the contributions they made to our city.

Erected 2014 by City of Alexandria.


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"The Path of Thorn and Roses" is the new centerpiece sculpture by artist Mario Chiodo located in the middle of the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery.

The Freedmen's Cemetery was established in 1864 and the Memorial dedicated in 2014.