Decedent

Gospel Pilgrim Decedents has a comprehensive list of men, women, and children interred in the cemetery. Using grave markers, obituaries, and death certificates, we have complied a list of individuals buried within the cemetery and, to the extent possible with archival silences, developed short biographies of each persons' life. Some decedents have marked graves, while others do not.

In part, this data is based on an early 2000s GIS survey of the cemetery, which was completed by David Berle, Gail Tarver, Taylor Ladd from the University of Georgia's Horticulture Department. The Athens-Clarke County Death Certificate data was, likewise, transcribed by Leah Richier, an graduate alumni of the University of Georgia's Department of History.

Last Name First Name Gender Race Statussort descending Occupation DOB DOD Age Grave Location Grave Marker Biography
Foster Emma Female African American Enslaved Wife December 31, 1859 December 31, 1948 88 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Eliza and George Shropshire, Emma Shropshire Foster was born on May 20, 1860 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1870, she lived with her parents and attended school in Athens. She married Robert Foster and, in 1880, she was “keeping house.” The couple had six children, including William, Robert, and John. In 1920, as a widow, she lived “South Athens Town Athens to Whitehall Road Runing South East.” By 1930, her address was listed as “Milledge Extension.” In 1940, she lived at 195 Milledge Avenue. She died from unknown causes on January 6, 1949.
Adams Mentie Female African American Enslaved Wife December 31, 1854 December 31, 1902 46 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mentie Adams was born around 1855 and most likely enslaved as a child. Even so, according to the 1900 Census, she could both read and write. In 1875, she married John H. Adams, who worked as a “Presser” in Athens. The couple had five children, but only four—John, William, Mentie, and David—lived to adulthood. In 1900, the family lived at 272 Attica Avenue. Adams died from unknown causes on March 31, 1903. She was 46yrs, 7mons, 11 days old. According to the 1904 City Directory—published only a year after her death—John Adams lived at 1020 W Hancock Avenue; this is most likely her last known address.
Hawkins Perry Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1848 December 31, 1917 69 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Perry F. Hawkins was born around 1849 and most likely enslaved as a young adult. In 1871, he married Katie B. Hawkins, a servant, and the couple had at least five children: Julia, Fred, Will, Robert, and Clifford. In 1881, he was a registered voter. He worked as a blaster in 1880 and a “rock breaker” in 1900. According to the 1909 City Directory, he worked as a laborer and lived at 143 Pearl Street. In 1911, at the Mayor’s orders, “the old negro, Perry Hawkins, went to the city hall according to promise and there gave his boy the licking on his life.” He died from unknown causes o October 25, 1918.
Jones Louvenia Female African American Enslaved Housework December 31, 1919 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Foster Robert Male African American Enslaved Farmer December 31, 1852 December 31, 1917 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Nice and Lee Foster, Robert H. Foster was born around 1853 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1870, he worked as a farm laborer and lived with his parents. He married Emma Foster and the couple had at least three children: Ella, William, Robert, and John. He worked as a farmer in 1880 and 1910; he lived outside of town near “Allensville and Wherele Hall Road” In 1918, he and his son were accused of “desecrating the United States Flag,” but were both acquitted of the crime. He died from unknown causes on September 3, 1918.
McCree Edward Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1859 December 31, 1954 95 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Louisa and Squire H. McCree, Edward McCree was born around 1860 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1870, he lived with his parents and siblings on a farm in Watkinsville, Georgia. By 1880, the family had moved to Throne Street. Instead of attending school, 13 year-old McCree worked as a laborer. He married Nettie McCree, a laundress, and the couple had at least one child: Maggie. In 1910, he worked as a city street laborer and rented a home at Green Street. According to the 1938 City Directory, the coupled lived at 543 Reese Street. He died from unknown causes in 1955.
Mongumory Tom Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1923 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Robinson Charity Female African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1833 December 31, 1920 87 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Jones Margaret Female African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1920 87 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Iverson Edward Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1827 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Edward Iverson was born around 1828 and most likely enslaved. He married Amanda Iverson, a cook, sometime before 1870. In 1880, he worked as a laborer and they lived at 268 10th Street. She died of unknown causes at an unknown date.
McIntosh Susan Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1849 December 31, 1939 90 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of May Jane Stroud and Christopher “Kitt” Harris, Susan McIntosh was born around 1850 and enslaved as a child According to the WPA interviews, she was owned by the Stroud family. She married George McIntosh and the couple had one child: Andrew Jones. She worked as a domestic servant in 1870, a servant in 1880, and a laundress in 1900. As a widow in 1910 and 1920, she lived at 170 Paris Street. She died from on February 10, 1940. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived at 1203 W. Hancock Street.
Carey Fannie Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1853 December 31, 1937 84 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Fannie L. Carey was born on July 6, 1854 and most likely Enslaved as a child. She married Lucius Carey, a laborer, and the couple lived at 385 Arch Street in 1935. She diedfrom unknown causes on December 9, 1939. She was 84 years old at the time of her death.
Powers Amanda Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1917 73 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Daughter of Harriett Powers. According to her obituary, she died at 73 years of age in May 1918. She was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; her grave may be unmarked.
Allen Owen Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1828 December 31, 1899 71 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Owen Allen was born in December 1829 and most likely enslaved as a child and young adult. He married Margaret Allen and the couple had at least five children—Hopy, Albert, Henry, Nancy, and Margaret. In 1870, he worked as a “Day Laborer” and, in 1880, as a "farmer." According to the 1889 City Directory, he worked as a blacksmith at 907 S Lumpkin Street and lived in Allensville. He died, at 71 years of age, on December 28, 1900.
Derricotte Charlotte Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1862 December 31, 1926 64 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Lucy Dodson and Andrew Jackson, Charlotte L. Derricotte was born on May 12, 1863 and most likely enslaved as an infant. In 1882, she married Edward J. Derricotte and the couple had at least four children: Ophelia, Edward Jr., Tom, and Andrew. She worked as a house maid in Athens in 1900 and as a laundress in Massachusetts in 1910. At 64 years old, she died from arteriosclerosis and myocarditis on November 5, 1927. According to the Death Index, she had been living in Everett, Massachusetts and employed as a caterer.
Heard Benjamin Male African American Enslaved Mason December 31, 1863 December 31, 1907 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Benjamin Scribben Heard was born around May 10, 1864 and was enslaved as a child. He married Emma F. Heard, a teacher, and the couple had at least one child: Selma G. Heard. In 1889, he worked as a brickmason and lived at 832 Cherry. According to the 1900 Census, he had changed professions and now worked as a merchant, but this is most likely an error, since, according to the 1904 City Directory, he worked as a brickmason and lived at 830 Cherry. He died from unknown causes on May 28, 1908.
Iverson Amanda Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1824 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Amanda Iverson was born around 1825 and most likely enslaved. She married Edward Iverson, a day laborer, and in 1870 she was “keeping house.” In 1880, she lived at 268 10th Street and worked as a cook. She died of unknown causes at an unknown date.
[Powers?] Harriet Female African American Enslaved Seamstress December 31, 1838 December 31, 1909 72 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Harriet C. Powers was born around 1837-1839 and, as a young woman, enslaved on the plantation of John and Nancy Lester in Madison County, Georgia. At around 18 years old, she married Armstead Powers in 1855. The couple had at least nine children, including Amanda, Leon Joe (Alonzo), Nancy, Lizzie, and Marshall. In 1870 and 1880, she was “Keeping House” and lived with her family near Sandy Creek, Georgia. As skilled seamstress and folk artist, her intricate quilts were displayed at the Clarke County Cotton Fair and were highly sought after. Today, only two of her quilts survive; one hangs American History Museum of the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. and the other hangs in the Museum of Fine Art in Boston. According to the 1889 City Directory, her husband lived at 27 Angle [St? Rd?]; she most likely lived at this address as well. She died from unknown causes on January 1, 1910.
Smith Rosa Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1862 December 31, 1934 72 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Lottie and Mr. Jones, Rosa Jones Smith was born around July 4, 1863 and most likely enslaved as a child. She worked as a laborer in 1880 and a private family nurse in 1910. As a widow, in 1910, she lived 293 Cherry Street. She died from [??] and pneumonia on January 17, 1935. At the time of her death, she worked as a domestic and lived at 389 Dubose Avenue.
Heard Bartlett Male African American Enslaved Farmer December 31, 1831 December 31, 1889 58 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Bartlett Heard was born on August 15, 1832 and was most likely enslaved as a child. He married Mary Heard and, in 1880, the couple lived in Buck Branch, Clarke County, Georgia. He died from unknown causes on July 26, 1890. He was 58 years old at the time of his death.
Brown Martha Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1831 December 31, 1858 27 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Martha M. Brown was born on September 27, 1832 and died on November 4, 1859; she was most likely enslaved. Her body was most likely moved to Gospel Pilgrim sometime after 1882, when the cemetery opened.
Thompson Florence Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1861 December 31, 1961 100 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Maria Derricotti, Florence Thompson was born around 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1900 and 1910, she worked as a washerwoman and, as a widow, lived with her mother at 148 Strong Street. She died from unknown causes in 1962.
Freeman Fannie Female African American Enslaved Seamstress December 31, 1963 December 31, 1930 67 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Fannie Martin Freeman was born between 1860 and 1864 and was most likely enslaved as a child. In 1883, she married R. S. Freeman. According to the 1910 Census, she was a widow working as a seamstress and living at 564 Fourth Street. In 1930, she lived with a son in Spalding, Georgia. She died from a cerebral hemorrhage on January 10, 1931. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a cook and lived at 50 Madison Street.
Thomas Alice Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1922 75 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
McQueen W. Male African American Enslaved Driver December 31, 1849 December 31, 1904 54 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked W. M. McQueen was born on November 15,1850 and most likely enslaved as a child. He married Nettie McQueen and the couple had at least one child: Mamie. In 1880, he worked as an express porter and lived on Hull Street. According to the 1897 City Directory, he worked as a driver for Southern Express Company and lived at 630 Hull Street. At 54 years old, he died from unknown causes on March 19, 1905.
Williams Jane Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1836 December 31, 1890 54 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Jane Williams was born around 1837 and most likely enslaved. She married Isaac Williams and the couple had at least one child: Marie Williams. In 1800, she worked as a servant and lived at the corner of Foundry Street and Connecticut Street. At 54 years old, she died from unknown causes on January 13, 1891.
Austin Nicey Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1842 December 31, 1934 92 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Nicey Austin was born on May 12, 1843 (or sometime between 1843 and 1848) and most likely spent her youth enslaved. Described as a “Mulatto” in the 1880 Census, she could not read or write and worked as house servant in Athens, Georgia. In 1920 she was still working as a housekeeper and lived with her adult daughter, Mary Jefferson, at 130 Harris Street. Austin died from unknown causes on March 19, 1935.
Scott Jane Female African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1924 98 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
[Tiller?] William Male African American Enslaved Metal Worker December 31, 1854 December 31, 1935 81 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Eliza and Charles Tiller, William Tiller was born around 1855 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1880, he was married to Ella Teller and they lived with extended family on River Street. He worked in a “in a Gin Shop” in 1880, as a “Tinner” in 1910, 1920, and 1930. He died from cerebral apoplexy and chronic nephritis on November 9, 1936. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a Sheet Metal Worker and lived at 190 Fifth Street.
Edwards Fred Male African American Enslaved Fireman December 31, 1922 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Neelia Peter Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1925 78 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Smith Georgia Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1861 December 31, 1940 79 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Georgia Smith was born around 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. Sometime before 1910, she was married and widowed. She worked as seamstress in a Shirt Factory in 1910 and a laundress in 1920. In 1940, she lived alone at 420 Athens Avenue. At 79 years old, she died from unknown causes on January 1, 1941.
Derricotte Fannie Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1861 December 31, 1933 72 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Gabrella and George Brown, Fannie Brown Derricotte was born around 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. She was widowed sometime before 1900, and had at least two children: Mary and Willie. According to the 1880, 1900, 1910 and 1920 Census, She worked as a laundress. She died from cardio vascular renal disease on February 21, 1934. According to her death certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived at 825 W Hancock Avenue.
Heard J. Unknown African American Enslaved December 31, 1854 December 31, 1907 53 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, this individual was born on June 6, 1855 and most likely was enslaved as a child. They died from unknown causes on December 30, 1908.
Jackson Edward Male African American Enslaved December 31, 1852 6 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Edward Jackson died on October 3, 1853 and was most likely enslaved. He died at 6 years old. Her body was most likely moved to Gospel Pilgrim sometime after 1882, when the cemetery opened, or a marker was simply erected for a lost loved one.
McQueen Amanda Female African American Enslaved Seamstress December 31, 1857 December 31, 1915 58 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Amanda McQueen was born on March 26, 1858 and most likely spent her childhood enslaved. She married James McQueen, a laborer, and the couple had at least three children: Gerdine, Nelley, and Janie. In 1880, she worked as a laundress and lived with her family on Hull Street. As a widow in 1900, she lived alone and worked as a seamstress. According to the 1904 City Directory, she lived at 626 N Hull Street. At 58 years old, she died from unknown causes on December 31, 1916.
Jones Lula Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1858 December 31, 1929 71 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Lula Jones was born on March 18, 1859 and most likely enslaved. She married and had three children. In 1910, she was a widow who worked as a cook and rented a house at 160 Lyndon Avenue. According to the 1928 City Directory, she worked as a cook and lived at 157 Warsaw Street. She died from unknown cause on April 3, 1930.
Derricotte Savannah Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1851 December 31, 1899 47 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Savannah Derricotte was born on November 17, 1852 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1874, she married Henry Derricotte, a carpenter, and, in 1900, the couple had seven living children. According to the 1900 Census, she did not work. At 47 years old, she died from unknown causes on September 25, 1900. According to the 1909 City Directory, Henry Derricotte lived at 213 Chase Street and this is most likely her last address.
George Maria Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1824 December 31, 1914 90 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Maria George was born around 1825 and most likely spent the first half of her life enslaved. As a widow in 1910, she owned a home at 584 Strong Street. She still lived at that address in 1912, according to the City Directory. She died from unknown causes on March 14, 1915.
Thomas Margret Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1919 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Nesbrit Hellen Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1919 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Jones Thomas Male African American Enslaved Driver December 31, 1829 December 31, 1899 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Thomas Jones was born around 1830 and most likely enslaved. In 1870, he worked as a domestic servant and in 1880 he worked as a street car driver. He married Mary Jones in 1863 and the couple most likely did not have living children. In 1900, he lived at 529 Lumpkin Street. He died from unknown causes on October 13, 1900.
Derricotte Edward Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1856 December 31, 1939 83 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Edward J. Derricotte was born on March 12, 1858 and most likely enslaved as an infant. He worked as a day laborer in 1870 and as a “Sexton To Church” in 1880. In 1882, he married Charlotte L. Derricotte and the couple had at least four children: Ophelia, Edward Jr., Tom, and Andrew. He worked as a laborer at “odd jobs” while living in Everett, Massachusetts in 1920. Upon returning to Athens, he worked as carpenter in 1920. After the death of his wife, he moved back to Everett, Massachusetts where he worked as a janitor and lived with extended family. He died from unknown causes on June 4, 1940.
Bridy Camilla Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1924 74 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Lawrence Orrin Male African American Enslaved December 31, 1920 82 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Jackson Alfred Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1821 December 31, 1883 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Alfred Jackson was born around 1822 in Virginia and most likely spent most of his life enslaved. He married Louisa Jackson and the couple had at least six children: Camilla, Edward, Albin, Bettie, Mary, and Judy. He worked as a day laborer in 1870 and a white washer in 1880. He lived on River Street. He died from unknown causes on February 14, 1884.
Thomas Matt Male African American Enslaved Driver December 31, 1923 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Newsome Susie Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1860 December 31, 1926 66 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Bacon Robert Male African American Enslaved Porter December 31, 1818 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Robert Bacon was born around 1819 and most likely enslaved for much of his life. He married Minerva Bacon sometime before 1870 and the couple had at least three children: Robert Jr., Edward, and Mary. He worked as a La laborer in 1870 and porter in 1880. In 1880, he lived with his wife, children, daughter-in-law, and grand children at 353 Foundry Street in Athens. According to the 1889 City Directory, his wife lived at 414 N Foundry Street and this is most likely his last address. He died from unknown causes on an unknown date.
Dillard Hansel Male African American Enslaved Barber December 31, 1792 December 31, 1852 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Hansel Dillard was born enslaved around 1793. Trained as a barber, Dillard advertised his services to white Athenians in The Southern Whig: “Barbering and Hair-dressing. Hansel Dillard, Respectfully informs the citizens of Athens and the public generally, that he will, at all times, be found at his Shop, happy to accommodate those who favor him with their patronage.” In an era that barred almost all free and enslaved men from skilled employment, barbers enjoyed steady, profitable work. Indeed, this profession paid well; Dillard’s earning bought him freedom. As a free man of color, Dillard carved out a respectable space for himself in the slaveholding South. Dillard, according to The Weekly Banner, “made a great deal of money.” In addition to his barbershop, Dillard owned a bakery, operated a confectionery, kept a stable, and ran a delivery service. For him, and many other African-American men, barbering was a path to freedom and middle-class prosperity. It allowed him to procure not only his own freedom, but purchase his wife’s freedom for $1000 as well. She, then, took in student’s washing for additional income. In 1851, Dillard owned property; he paid taxes. Sixty-year-old Dillard died of unknown causes on Sept. 5, 1853. He was buried in Athens. Exactly where, however, is unknown. At some point, years after Hansel Dillard’s death, friends from Charleston, South Carolina erected a tombstone in his memory. While damaged by age and neglect, the stone, inscribed “I know that my Redeemer livith,” still stands in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery today.
Jackson Louisa Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1825 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Louisa Jackson was born around 1826 in Georgia and most likely spent most of her life enslaved. She married Alfred Jackson, a day laborer and white washer, and the couple had at least six children: Camilla, Edward, Albin, Bettie, Mary, and Judy. She worked as a washer and ironer in 1880 and lived on River Street. She died sometime after 1880.
Norman John Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1923 68 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Bacon Marenia Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1823 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Minerva Bacon was born around 1824 and most likely enslaved as a young woman. She married Robert Bacon sometime before 1870 and the couple had at least threechildren: Robert Jr., Edward, and Mary. In 1880, she lived with her husband, sons, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren at 353 Foundry Street in Athens. She worked as a “Washer & Ironer” in 1880 and as a “cook” in 1889. According to the 1889 City Directory, she lived at 414 N Foundry Street. She died from unknown causes on an unknown date.
Smith Candace or Candance? Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1847 December 31, 1927 84 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Violet Baxter, Candance Wylie Smith was born around 1848. She died on September 29, 1928. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived on a “country farm” outside of Athens.
Dillard William Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1907 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked William Dillard was born around 1844 and most likely enslaved. According to the 1870 Census, he worked as Day Laborer. She married Racheal Dillard and they had at least two children: Nannie and Annie. In 1904, he worked as a laborer and lived at 640 Fourth Street. He was one of the founding members of the Gospel Pilgrim Society.
Heard Mattie Female African American Enslaved Teacher December 31, 1862 December 31, 1942 78 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mattie I. Heard was born around 1863 and most likely enslaved. She married William Heard, a blacksmith, in 1897 and the couple does not appear to have had living children. She worked as a teacher in 1900, 1910, and 1920 At the time of her husband’s death in 1939, they lived at 475 Reese Street. She died from unknown causes on November 13, 1943.
Browner Richard Male African American Enslaved City Employee December 31, 1921 63 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Upson Neal Male African American Enslaved December 31, 1860 December 31, 1941 74 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Jane and Harold Upson, Neal Upson was born around 1861. According to a 1930s WPA interview, he was enslaved on Frank Upson’s plantation in Oglethorpe County. He married Brynie Upson. According to the 1942 City Directory, he lived at 450 Fourth Street. At 74 years old, he died from unknown causes on July 22, 1942.
Thomas Palace Female African American Enslaved Housework December 31, 1924 71 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Bacon Mary Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1848 December 31, 1916 68 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Mary Bacon was born on October 17, 1849 and, given her date of birth, sge likely spent her childhood enslaved. According to the 1909 City Directory, she worked as a laundress and lived at 554 E Strong Street. at 68 years old, she died from uknown causes on November 27, 1917. She is most likely either the mother, sister, or wife of Edward Bacon, who was also buried in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery.
Smith Martha Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1859 December 31, 1921 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Jim Nealy, Martha Smith was born around 1860 in Alabama and most likely enslaved as a child. She married Seboon (or “Siabam”) Smith around 1870 and the couple had at least six children: Inez, Willie, and Samuel. In 1910, she worked as a “sick nurse” and lived with her family on Bertin Street. She died from “cancer return” on May 30, 1922. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived at 181 Lyndon Avenue.
Downer G. Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1860 December 31, 1914 54 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, G. T. Dower was born around 1861 and most likely enslaved as a child. At 54 years old, this person died from unknown causes on February 2, 1915. Most likely this person is Gaines Downer, who, according to the 1904 City Directory, worked as a laborer and lived at 658 Morris [St. Av. or Way?].
Lewis Fannie Female African American Enslaved Teacher December 31, 1923 63 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Bacon Edward Male African American Enslaved Shoemaker December 31, 1853 December 31, 1905 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Minerva and Robert Bacon, Edward Bacon was born on December 25, 1854 and, given this date, most likely spent his childhood enslaved. He married Mary Bacon and the couple may or may not have had children. During the 1870s and 1880s, he worked as a shoemaker in Athens. According to the 1897-98 City Directory, he lived at 416 E. Strong Street and remained at this address in 1904 while working as a shoemaker. He died from unknown causes on December 13, 1906; he was 49 years old.
Drake Laura Female African American Enslaved Cake Embosser December 31, 1861 December 31, 1904 43 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Laura L. T. Drake was born in May 1862 and was most likely enslaved as a child. In 1900, she was married and had four children: Franklin, Laura, Ruby, and Gipsy. She worked as a cake embosser and lived at 11 Billups Street. On May 24, 1905, she died from unknown causes; she was around 43 years old.
Hicks Charles Male African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1840 December 31, 1915 75 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Charles Hicks was born around 1841 and most likely enslaved as a child and young adult. In 1904, he worked as a cook and lived at 21 N Findley Street. He was married to Mary A. Hicks and, according to the 1915 City Directory, they lived at 169 N Findley Street. According to a 1914 newspaper report, he was a contributing member of the Methodist Church. He died from unknown causes on December 8, 1916.
Milner Ella Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1861 December 31, 1942 81 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Ella L. Milner was born in 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. She married Sam Milner, a warehouse worker, and the couple had at least one child: Roberta Milner. She did not work during her married life. As a widow in 1930, she lived alone at 168 Peabody Street. She died from unknown causes in 1943.
Cole William Male African American Enslaved Janitor December 31, 1851 December 31, 1931 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Betsey Derricotte and Lucius C. Cole, William Cole was born around 1852 and was most likely enslaved as a child. He worked various jobs, including day laborer (1870), farmer (1880), and janitor (1932). He married Mary Cole and, in 1900, the couple had two living children: Hansel Cole and another unnamed child. 80 year-old Cole died from [??] on September 30, 1932. At the time of his death, he lived at 186 John Street.
Young Agnes Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1836 December 31, 1897 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Agnes “Aggie” Crawford Young was born in March 1837. In 1870, she was “keeping house.” She was married James Young in 1864 and they had at least six children: Edward, John, Minnie (Davis), Maria, James, and Young. As a widow in 1880, she lived at the corner of Foundry Street and Connecticut Street and worked as a “Washer & Ironer.” According to the 1889 City Directory, she lived at 438 Bridge Street and worked as a laundress. At he died from unknown causes on January 10, 1898. After her death, she bequeathed her possessions to her daughter, Minnie Davis.
Owens Emberly Female African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1924 99 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Simmons Harett Female African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1921 95 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Wagner George Male African American Enslaved Plasterer December 31, 1918 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Owens Isibella Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1918 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Sloan Lucinda Female African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1919 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Nesbit John Male African American Enslaved Mason December 31, 1853 December 31, 1895 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Sarah and Charles Nesbit, John Nesbit was born around 1854. In 1870, he lived with his parents and siblings in Athens. He married Ella Virginia Richardson on February 3, 1884 and the couple had six living children, including John, Fannie, Sarah, Julia, and Laura. According to a 1889 editorial on East Athens, “Mr. John Nesbitt has a pretty house that can vie with many of our handsome ones on this side.” According to the 1894 City Directory, he worked as a brickmason and lived at 310 Pearl Street. He died from unknown causes on October 13, 1896.
Brown Malcolm Male African American Enslaved December 31, 1858 December 31, 1886 27 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Gabriella and George Brown, Malcolm Brown was born on March 1, 1859 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1870, he attended school. He died at 27 years old from unknown causes on January 9, 1887.
Gant Ellen Female African American Enslaved Farmer December 31, 1919 110 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Reid Lorenzo Male African American Enslaved Barber December 31, 1862 December 31, 1946 84 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Lorenzo W. Reid was born around 1863 and most likely enslaved as a child. On October 5, 1884, he married Laura Richardson Reid, a laundress, and the couple had at least ten children: Beulah, L. W., Charlie, Addie, Fannie, Louisa, Ruth, Etta, Mattiline, and Laura Ella. In 1900, the family lived at 431 Bridge Street. He worked as a barber in 1900, 1910, 1920, and 1940. In 1940, he lived at 431 Bridge Street. At 83 years old, he died from unknown causes on June 14, 1947.
Parrott Henry Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1918 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Jones Vinnie Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1824 December 31, 1886 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Vinnie Jones was born around December 25, 1825 and most likely spent her early life enslaved. She married Willis A. Jones, a carpenter and reverend, and, in 1880, the couple lived on Broad Street. She died from unknown causes on November 7, 1887.
[Barker?] [Sam?] Male African American Enslaved December 31, 1846 December 31, 1926 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Sam Barker was born, most likely enslaved, around 1847, and died on January 28, 1927. He was eighty years old at the time of his death.
Smith Betney Male African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1922 71 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Nesbit Ella Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1859 December 31, 1947 88 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Ella Virginia Richardson Nesbit was born on August 23, 1860 and most likely enslaved as a child. She married John Nesbit on February 3, 1884 and the couple had six living children, including John, Fannie, Sarah, Julia, and Laura. As a widow in 1900, she worked as a laundress and lived with five of her children at 310 Pearl Street. She died from unknown causes on December 6, 1948.
Garfield Carrie Female African American Enslaved Housewife December 31, 1924 63 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Jones Willis Male African American Enslaved Carpenter December 31, 1813 December 31, 1912 99 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Willis A. Jones was born around February 28, 1814 and most likely spent his early life enslaved. He married Vinnie Jones and, in 1880, the couple lived on Broad Street. He worked as a carpenter in 1880, but is referred to as “Reverend” on his tombstone. According to the 1897 City Directory, he worked as a Carpenter and lived at 31 S Poplar Street. He died from unknown causes on March 3, 1913.
Stephens Oliver Male African American Enslaved December 31, 1848 December 31, 1879 31 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Oliver Stephens was born on August 21, 1849 and most likely enslaved. At 31 years old, he died on September 6, 1880.
Walker Charlie Male African American Enslaved Reverend December 31, 1919 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Jones Louvenia Female African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1851 December 31, 1921 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Louvenia Jones was born on March 20, 1852 and most likely enslaved as a child. At some point in her life, she married and had seven children; only five were living in 1900. That same year, she lived with her daughter (Emma Mills) and son-in-law (George Mills) on Franklin Street. According to the 1917 City Directory, she lived at 187 Poplar Street. She died from unknown causes on September 14, 1922.
Jones W. Unknown African American Enslaved December 31, 1854 December 31, 1905 51 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, W. A. Jones was born on April 11, 1855 and most likely enslaved. This individual died on November 5, 1905.
Bass Edward Male African American Enslaved Barber December 31, 1859 December 31, 1902 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Martha and William Bass, Edward W. Bass was born on August 23, 1860 and most likely spent his early years enslaved. As a youth in 1880, he worked as porter and eventually became a barber. He married Martha Caldwell on June 9, 1889. According to the 1889 City Directory, he worked as a barber and lived at 1024 Reese Street. At 42 years-old, Bass died from unknown causes on June 20, 1903. According to the 1904 City Directory, his widow, Martha Bass, lived at 1127 Reese Street--this is most likely his last known address as well.
Dukes Mary Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1842 December 31, 1907 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Mary Dukes died at 65 years old on July 10, 1908. Given these dates, she would have been born enslaved around 1843. According to the 1889 City Directory, she worked as a cook and lived at 216 Hancock Avenue.
Mack Charlotte Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1861 December 31, 1932 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Charlotte H. Mack was born in 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. She married John R. Mack, a post office clerk, in 1882 and the couple had at least eight children: Annie, Abram, Mattie, Fannie, Lucile, Richard, Milledge, and Walter. On June 21, 1933, she died from hypostatic pneumonia, myocarditis, and dilatation of heart. At the time of her death, she worked as a domestic and lived at 853 Reese Street.
Marshall Nannie Female African American Enslaved Housework December 31, 1919 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Walker Fannie Female African American Enslaved Farmer December 31, 1920 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Smith Peter Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1919 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Mack John Male African American Enslaved Post Office Clerk December 31, 1855 December 31, 1917 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked John R. Mack was born around 1856 and most likely enslaved as a child. He married Charlotte H. Mack in 1882 and the couple had at least eight children: Annie, Abram, Mattie, Fannie, Lucile, Richard, Milledge, and Walter. In 1900 and 1910, he worked as a post office clerk and owned a house at 853 Reese Street. According to the 1913 City Directory, he and his family lived at 853 Reese Street. He died from unknown causes in 1918.
Brydie E. Unknown African American Enslaved Barber December 31, 1847 December 31, 1908 61 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, E. W. Brydie was born on August 12, 1848 and most likely enslaved. He mosy likely married Camilla Jackson Brydie and the couple had at least three children: Carolyn, Eugene, and Edward. According to the 1889 City Directory, he worked as a barber and lived at 601 Plum Street. In 1904, he still worked as a barber, but noq lived at 101 N Findley Street. At around 61 years old, he died from unknown causes on October 3, 1909.
Payne Lettia Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1927 85 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Bates William Male African American Free Farmer December 31, 1864 December 31, 1941 77 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Kissey Bates, William Bates was born around 1865. His first wife, Marie Bates, died sometime before 1920. In the 1920s and 1930s, he worked as a farmer near the Princeton Factory in Clarke County, Georgia. By 1940, he had remarried 44 year-old Alice Bates and they lived at 1537 W Broad Street. At that time, he did not work and she worked as a laundress. He died on March 6, 1942; he was around 77 years of age.
Stroud Baby Ezekiel Male African American Free December 31, 1972 December 31, 1972 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Baby Ezekiel L. Stroud was born and died in 1973.

Get in touch

  • Department of History
    220 LeConte Hall, Baldwin Street
    University of Georgia
    Athens, GA 30602-1602
  • 706-542-2053
  • 706-542-2455
  • history@uga.edu

eHistory was founded at the University of Georgia in 2011 by historians Claudio Saunt and Stephen Berry

Learn More about eHistory