The 144: Honoring the Lost Ancestors

In 2022, a single grave site was discovered on private property in York County. With the help of archaeologists, property owners Andrew and Mary Lazenby discovered 144 gravesites believed to be those of enslaved Africans. The cemetery property, protected by a conservation easement with Nation Ford Land Trust, will never be developed. We have a rare opportunity to honor and share the story of these lost ancestors. Join us again this year as we continue to honor and share the story of these lost ancestors. 

Our program will explore the funerary traditions of enslaved Africans and we will honor the 144 Lost Ancestors. This program will also include an opportunity to speak to the landowners and others who are a part of this fascinating project. 

Participants will have several opportunities to honor the enslaved 144 buried at the site: 

- Libation Ceremony – By Dontavius Williams 
- Note Choir – Enjoy a selection of songs from the Mount Zion Note Choir. 
- A station for creating your own remembrance to honor the 144 will be provided with bio-degradable materials along with an offering table at the site. 

Several educational booths and tables will be available such as: 

- The story of the cemetery’s restoration from the landowners, Andrew and Mary Lazenby 
- Informational material about the conservation easement with Nation Ford Land Trust that protects the cemetery from ever being developed in perpetuity 
- Genealogical research provided by the York County Library 
- More educational material about the 144 cemetery 

Disclaimer: The location of this event is private property and is not available to visit by the public. The address will be provided with event registration. 

Nation Ford Land Trust is dedicated to the preservation of open spaces, natural beauty, and the scenic and historic heritage of the York County, South Carolina area. All proceeds from this event are donated to NFLT.

Read more on the Nation Ford Land Trust website.