White Rock Cemetery History

In 1885 a 7.35 acre plot (later changed to 7.29 acres) of property was purchased by Jackson Street United Methodist Church from J.P. Shaner. Previously, the property had been Edward Lynch's homeplace, then Christopher Winfree's homeplace, named "Woodlawn". According to maps throughout the years, the property has also been known as The Colored Cemetery, The Negro Cemetery and most recently, as Historic White Rock Cemetery. 

The cemetery has been used for burials for over 100 years. From time to time the property has been cleared, but has become overgrown with trees and underbrush over the past 30 years. Long-range plans include enclosing the cemetery with fencing, building a visitor information center and receiving gifts for additional property and protection from encroachments. 

The restoration and development of Historic White Rock Cemetery will be an invaluable tool for interpreting the history of Lynchburg families from the early 1800's to the late 1900's.

Funding for HWRC

Funding for the initial restoration has been made possible by:

• The Easley Foundation
• The Greater Lynchburg Community Trust
• Community Development Block Grants from
  the City of Lynchburg
• Greater Lynchburg Habitat for Humanity
• Lynchburg College Asset Based
  Community Development Fund

For more information about funding for perpetual care, please click here.

HWRC Board
 

Paster Willie Butler, Ex-Officio
Geraldine Clarke, Secretary
W. E. Clarke, III
Gloria Franklin
Rev. Carl Hutcherson
Clara Jackson, President
Thelma Jennings, Treasurer
Lucinda Booker, Vice President
Laura Munson, Restoration
McDonald R. Pullen
M. W. Thornhill
Jean Smith-Turner
Lena Williams

Copyright © 2001-2003 Historic White Rock Cemetery, Inc. All rights reserved.