African Cemetery No. 2 - Image 1
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African Cemetery No. 2

5
·5 reviews·Lexington, United States

A historic resting place and the earliest Black-owned cemetery in Lexington, KY, beautifully restored and maintained.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Summer Mornings

Flowers in bloom, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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African Cemetery No. 2 - Image 1

African Cemetery No. 2

Best Time

Late Summer Mornings

Flowers in bloom, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic resting place and the earliest Black-owned cemetery in Lexington, KY, beautifully restored and maintained.

5
(5 reviews)

"Beautifully restored and great markers. I was able to find the resting places on my own."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided Tour

Follow the great signage for an informative walk through history. :memo:

🌸 Respect the Grounds

This is a sacred space. Please be mindful and quiet during your visit. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Restored Grave Markers

Restored Grave Markers

Discover beautifully maintained headstones and markers, many with historical significance.

Historical Signage

Historical Signage

Informative signs guide you through the cemetery's rich past and important figures.

Community Beautification

Community Beautification

Witness the results of dedicated community efforts to preserve and enhance this sacred space.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visitation

African Cemetery No. 2 is a historic resting place. Please tread lightly, maintain a quiet demeanor, and avoid disturbing any markers or plantings. It's a place of remembrance and historical significance.

Self-Guided Exploration

The cemetery is well-marked, allowing for a self-guided walking tour. Take your time to read the signage and appreciate the history. Parking is available on-site for your convenience.

Best Times

When
Late Summer Mornings
Why
Flowers in bloom, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime with good weather
Why
Ideal for self-guided tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌸💚 Honoring History: Beta Gamma Omega chapter’s Enhance Our Environment Committee took pride in beautifying the African Cemetery No. 2 in Lexington, Kentucky, ahead of its annual Juneteenth celebration. This historic cemetery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, holds significance as a resting place for Civil War veterans and individuals in equine occupations. Since 2005, the J...
aka.bgo
60 likes • 767 views

🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided Tour

Follow the great signage for an informative walk through history. :memo:

🌸 Respect the Grounds

This is a sacred space. Please be mindful and quiet during your visit. :pray:

If you follow me, you know I began a journey this summer of visiting Black legacy landmarks in Kentucky. Here’s another cemetery that l’ve long wanted to visit. Here’s some history about the Cemetery: AFRICAN CEMETERY NO. 2 is the earliest recorded cemetery in Lexington, KY, to be organized, owned, and managed by African Americans. The site has been in existence since 1869. Buried here are lead...
atticascottky
94 likes • 1.4K views
We kicked off the first day of the 2023 UK Equine Week of Service at African Cemetery No. 2. #UKEquine #AgEquine @ukagriculture
ukequineprograms
32 likes • 2K views

🚗 Convenient Parking

Parking is available on-site, making your visit hassle-free. :car:

🌿 Community Pride

Appreciate the efforts of local groups who maintain this historic site. :heart:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided Tour

Follow the great signage for an informative walk through history. :memo:

🌸 Respect the Grounds

This is a sacred space. Please be mindful and quiet during your visit. :pray:

🚗 Convenient Parking

Parking is available on-site, making your visit hassle-free. :car:

🌿 Community Pride

Appreciate the efforts of local groups who maintain this historic site. :heart:

What Travellers Say

5
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the beautiful restoration and well-maintained grave markers at African Cemetery No. 2. The informative signage enhances the self-guided tour experience, and the community's efforts to beautify the site are evident and appreciated. While it's a place of historical significance, some may find it a somber experience.

"Beautifully restored and great markers. I was able to find the resting places on my own. I was there late summer the gravesites are represented with beautifully planted flowers."

Lisa Minnick

"I saw a local TV station do a documentary about this cemetery. They are doing an amazing job of cleaning it up and restoring the markers. We made it a point to go by there today and I'm glad we did."

Marian Abbott

"A historic cemetery, parking."

Johnny Hiett

What People Like

Beautifully restored
Great markers
Informative signage

What People Dislike

Somber atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

African Cemetery No. 2 is located in Lexington, Kentucky. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common method. Parking is available on-site for visitors. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the cemetery, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, tickets are not typically required to visit African Cemetery No. 2. It is a historic site open for respectful exploration. Reddit

As a cemetery, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during reasonable times to ensure a peaceful experience. Reddit

There is no admission fee to visit African Cemetery No. 2. It's a free historical site for the public to learn from. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Absolutely! The cemetery features great signage that allows for an informative self-guided walking tour. Reddit

African Cemetery No. 2 is the earliest recorded cemetery in Lexington, KY, organized, owned, and managed by African Americans. It's a resting place for Civil War veterans and other significant individuals. Instagram

Visitors are encouraged to be respectful, maintain a quiet demeanor, and avoid disturbing any markers or plantings. It's a place of remembrance. Instagram

You can expect to see beautifully restored grave markers, historical signage, and evidence of community efforts to maintain the site. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but always be mindful of the solemn nature of the location. Avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

The restored grave markers and the historical signage offer great opportunities for photography. The well-maintained grounds also provide scenic backdrops. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting African Cemetery No. 2 can be an educational experience for families. The informative signage provides a great opportunity to teach children about local history and the importance of respecting historical sites. Encourage them to read the markers and learn about the individuals buried there. Remember to emphasize the need for quiet and respectful behavior throughout the visit. Instagram

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, African Cemetery No. 2 offers a unique glimpse into the African American experience in Lexington. As the earliest Black-owned cemetery in the area and a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it's a crucial location for understanding local heritage. The restored grave markers and detailed signage provide ample material for research and reflection. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Legacy Preserved

African Cemetery No. 2 stands as a vital testament to the history of African Americans in Lexington, Kentucky. It is recognized as the earliest recorded cemetery in the area that was organized, owned, and managed by the Black community. This historic site is not only a resting place for many but also a significant landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its preservation is a testament to the dedication of local organizations and community members who work tirelessly to maintain its integrity. Instagram+1

The cemetery holds the remains of Civil War veterans and other individuals who played crucial roles in the community's development. Recent efforts have focused on restoring and beautifying the grave markers and grounds, ensuring that the stories and legacies of those interred here are honored and remembered. Visitors can explore the site through a self-guided walking tour, aided by informative signage that details the cemetery's rich history. InstagramReddit

This ongoing work highlights a deep sense of pride and commitment to preserving Black history and heritage. The Enhance Our Environment Committee of the Beta Gamma Omega chapter, for instance, has taken pride in beautifying the cemetery, especially ahead of significant cultural events like Juneteenth. Instagram Such initiatives underscore the cemetery's importance not just as a historical site, but as a living memorial that continues to connect the present with the past.

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