Today we’d like to introduce you to Raphael Morris.
Raphael, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My wife, Shelley, and I began volunteering at Greenwood Cemetery in the summer of 2015. The cemetery had been abandoned for several decades, making it difficult for visitors to enter due to the overgrowth of invasive trees and vines. Along with a few other volunteers, we decided to form a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to seek assistance with our restoration efforts. Thus, the Greenwood Cemetery Preservation Association was established in 2016. Founded in 1874, Greenwood Cemetery spans 32 acres and is the final resting place for over 50,000 African Americans. Since we started the restoration, we have cleared approximately 90% of the grounds. Unfortunately, maintaining the cemetery has become our top priority. We are tasked not only with removing invasive species, such as honeysuckle and vines, but also with clearing fallen trees. Due to severe erosion, many headstones have either toppled or sunk into the ground. Over the past ten years, we have gained community support from various schools, government agencies, and corporations. Descendants of those interred now have the opportunity to visit their loved ones. What was once a heartbreaking experience for families is now a place that fosters a strong sense of pride. Teachers are bringing their students for community service projects and to learn the stories of those interred. Greenwood Cemetery has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Our vision is to restore and preserve the cemetery grounds while making it an educational resource for the community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to restoration has not been easy. The cemetery lacks an endowment for perpetual care, which means we must focus on fundraising. We need the right equipment to restore the grounds, or at least the funds to hire professional companies that can assist us. A fallen tree blocking the road can halt our progress. Continuous volunteer support is essential for maintaining the grounds. Unfortunately, we are also dealing with the problem of garbage dumping and the disposal of larger items such as car parts, mattresses, box springs, and carpets. Additionally, random acts of vandalism have made our efforts to reclaim the cemetery even more challenging.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I worked in the chemical industry for over 38 years in management, production, and as a safety coordinator. I took my job and the safety of others seriously.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Many people contribute to my ability to continue the work in Greenwood. Several of our board members assist with fundraising, maintaining equipment, managing finances, maintaining the burial record database, and conducting historical research. Together, we are fortunate to have a dedicated team that shares their talents
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.greenwoodstl.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenwoodstl
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenwood-cemetery-preservation-association-inc/
- Other: TikTok: @greenwood_stl
