Maintenance Begins On Macedonia African Methodist Church Cemetery

JOHNS CREEK, GA -- A little more than a week after formally approving an agreement to take over maintenance of the abandoned Macedonia African Methodist Church Cemetery, Johns Creek crews have began the process of restoring the site to a dignified appearance.

Crews were dispatched to the site Thursday morning to take on the task under the new agreement with Fulton County. That agreement was approved on July 10 by City Council members.

“This is a good first step in helping to preserve a significantly important historical site in the city,” said Johns Creek City Manager Warren Hutmacher.

While this is the second time in the past year that Johns Creek has conducted ground maintenance on the cemetery, which includes cutting grass, weeds, trimming, and removing other rubbish and debris, it the first time under the new agreement.

The city will now include the cemetery as part of the routine ground maintenance it conducts throughout Johns Creek. It is estimated that the additional maintenance will cost approximately $3,600 annually.

While the history is not exactly clear, it is believed that the African-American slave cemetery dates back to the mid-1800’s, and has more than 53 marked and unmarked graves. Long-term, Johns Creek hopes to work with outside organizations that are better positioned to unveil a more accurate history, and that can provide for a sustainable plan to improve and maintain the cemetery.

It is still unclear as to who exactly owns the property. However, the city will continue to provide routine ground maintenance to help improve the condition of the cemetery.

Images via city of Johns Creek