mt. olive graveyard
Many of the Newton County death certificates from 1912 to 1943 have Mt. Olive listed as the burial place. The exact location of this Mt. Olive graveyard remains unknown. Some genealogists believe it is in Hickory, MS, as some of the deceased on the certificates were from there. Others question whether the Mt. Olive mentioned refers to the one in Scott County near Lake, MS, which is part of Newton County. Regardless of its location, it is a historically sacred site where African American citizens of Newton County were laid to rest. It serves not only as a final resting place for many but also as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the African American community in the region.
Documentation for this graveyard is derived from death records and newspaper obituaries, which serve as invaluable resources for genealogical research and historical studies. Over the years, these documents narrate a unique story of lives once lived and legacies that continue to inspire future generations. Ongoing efforts are in place to preserve this sacred site, ensuring it remains a vital part of the community’s identity and history for years to come.
individuals laid to rest at this gravesite are as follows:
| In Memory of | Birth/Death | Aged | Cause of Death |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abram Sylvester | |||
| Jenkins, Strouter | |||
| Nixon, Annie Jones Nichols | |||
| Nix, John T. | |||
| Nixon, Arrie | |||
| Nixon, Mary | |||
| Ross, Arrena Williams | |||
| Thames, Annie Pace | |||
| Thompson, Julia Jones | |||
| Watkins, Angeline “Angie” Lay | 1874-1962 | 88 | Unknown |