Manatee County Plans Community Cleanup at Historic Old Memphis Cemetery

Manatee County Government, in partnership with the City of Palmetto and City of Bradenton, will host a cleanup and beautification effort at Old Memphis Cemetery on Saturday, May 23 beginning at 9 a.m. 

“Acts of vandalism do not define our community. The response does,” said Amanda Ballard, Manatee County district 2 commissioner. “What we are seeing now is neighbors, families, volunteers, and local partners coming together to restore dignity to this historic cemetery and honor the generations of people buried there, including veterans who served our country. Ahead of Memorial Day, this effort is about remembrance, respect, and unity.”

Old Memphis Cemetery, a historic predominantly Black cemetery where generations of local families and veterans are buried, was recently vandalized with political graffiti. Multiple gravestones were smashed and damaged, and several headstones were toppled.

In response, local businesses, residents, contractors, community leaders, and volunteers have come together to help restore and preserve the cemetery.

The cleanup effort will focus on beautification, debris removal, landscaping, and restoration support as the community works to honor those laid to rest at the historic site.

Community members interested in volunteering are encouraged to arrive prepared for outdoor cleanup work beginning at 9 a.m. on May 23. The cemetery is located at 25th St. W & Second Ave. W, Palmetto, FL 32441. 

Additional restoration and preservation efforts are also being supported through community partnerships and local contractor assistance.
 

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or contact Manatee County Government Communications at news@mymanatee.org or call (941) 745-6397 (NEWS). Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.