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Daughters of Zion Cemetery

Charlottesville, United States

Charlottesville's historic African American cemetery, established 1873, honoring hundreds of lives through dedicated preservation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring Mornings

Pleasant weather for reflection

CrowdLow

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Daughters of Zion Cemetery

Best Time

Late Spring Mornings

Pleasant weather for reflection

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charlottesville's historic African American cemetery, established 1873, honoring hundreds of lives through dedicated preservation.

"A vital piece of Charlottesville's African American history, undergoing dedicated preservation."

TIP

Visit with Respect

Approach this historic site with reverence. It's a place of remembrance, not just a tourist spot. 🙏

Support Preservation

Learn about the Preservers of the Daughters of Zion Cemetery and consider supporting their vital work. ❤️

Quick Facts

Type

Cemetery

Address

225 Oak St, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA

Website

daughtersofzioncemetery.org

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic African American Cemetery

Established in 1873 by African American women, this site honors hundreds of lives and stories from Charlottesville's past.

Restored Headstones

Witness the results of dedicated preservation efforts, with many headstones meticulously repaired and standing as testaments to resilience.

New Memorial Marker

A recently installed marker signifies a commitment to remembering and honoring the heroes buried here.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visitation

This historic African American cemetery, established in 1873, is a significant cultural site. Visitors are encouraged to approach their visit with reverence and respect for the resting place of hundreds of individuals. Consider it a living historical monument.

Preservation Efforts

The Daughters of Zion Cemetery has been undergoing significant restoration efforts. While many headstones have been repaired, ongoing preservation is crucial. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any markers or the grounds.

Best Times

When

Late Spring Mornings

Why

Pleasant weather for reflection

Crowd

Low

When

Fall Afternoons

Why

Cooler temperatures, beautiful scenery

Crowd

Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the resting place of 15 members of Zion's Camp, and several Prophet-Presidents of The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (currently Community of Christ), Joseph Smith III, Israel Alexander Smith, Frederick Madison Smith, and the first Prophet-President of Remnant Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Frederick Niels Larsen. The Mound Grove Cemetery is only 6 mil...

@explore.church.sites

26.1K likes • 162.5K views

Visit with Respect

Approach this historic site with reverence. It's a place of remembrance, not just a tourist spot. 🙏

Support Preservation

Learn about the Preservers of the Daughters of Zion Cemetery and consider supporting their vital work. ❤️

Daughter of Zion part 1

@chideratv2

13.6K likes • 684.7K views

Since 2016 African-American cemeteries have been listed as “Virginia’s Most Endangered Historic Places” by @preservationva • • • • • The Daughters of Zion Cemetery (pictured here) is one of Charlottesville’s oldest #africanamericancemeteries dating back to 1873. #historicalsite #jimcrowera

unmarkedfilm

74 likes • 0 views

Understand its History

This cemetery is a key part of Charlottesville's African American history, dating back to 1873. 📜

Decoration Day Event

Check for annual events like Decoration Day for a community-focused experience. 📅

A couple of us got to visit beautiful Daughters of Zion Cemetery in Charlottesville this afternoon. The Preservers of the Daughters of Zion will be celebrating Decoration Day on Sunday, May 27, at 2 p.m. We plan to be there and hope you will be too! #historiccemeteries #africanamericancemetery #preservation #thisplacematters 📷@wokdocs

friendsofeastend

32 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Visit with Respect

Approach this historic site with reverence. It's a place of remembrance, not just a tourist spot. 🙏

Support Preservation

Learn about the Preservers of the Daughters of Zion Cemetery and consider supporting their vital work. ❤️

Understand its History

This cemetery is a key part of Charlottesville's African American history, dating back to 1873. 📜

Decoration Day Event

Check for annual events like Decoration Day for a community-focused experience. 📅

What Travellers Say

4.6

(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Daughters of Zion Cemetery for its historical significance and the dedicated preservation efforts that have revitalized the site. Many appreciate the opportunity to connect with African American history in Charlottesville. Some note that while restoration is ongoing, the cemetery remains a powerful place of remembrance.

What People Like

Historical significance

Preservation efforts

Community pride

What People Dislike

Ongoing restoration needs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Daughters of Zion Cemetery is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. While specific public transport details can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Parking availability might be limited, so consider carpooling or checking local guidance before your visit.

The cemetery is a recognized historical site. Using GPS with the full name 'Daughters of Zion Cemetery, Charlottesville, VA' should guide you effectively.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

As a historic cemetery, there is typically no entrance fee. It's a place for reflection and historical appreciation.

Cemeteries are often accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during respectful hours, typically from dawn to dusk, to ensure a peaceful experience.

While the grounds are generally open, it's best to visit during daylight hours. Avoid visiting late at night to maintain respect for the site and its history.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see historic headstones, many of which have been restored through dedicated preservation efforts. The cemetery itself tells a story of Charlottesville's African American community.

The cemetery offers poignant and historically significant subjects for photography. Remember to be respectful of the site and any ongoing services or visitors.

Established in 1873 by African American women, it's one of Charlottesville's oldest African American cemeteries and a vital part of the city's heritage.

While official guided tours might not be consistently available, local historical societies or preservation groups may offer insights or events. Checking with local Charlottesville historical organizations is recommended.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll likely be walking on uneven ground. Dress respectfully, as this is a place of remembrance. :athletic_shoe:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Charlottesville has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants and cafes located a short drive from the cemetery. You can find a variety of dining options to suit your preferences. :knifeforkplate:

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the historic headstones, the newly installed marker, and the natural beauty of the grounds. Capture the sense of history and resilience. +1

Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but always be mindful and respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are any ongoing ceremonies or visitors.