This historic African-American congregation located a few miles east of Claxton was founded in 1868 by Reverend K. Williams. The first deacons were: Sampson Brewton; Jonah Brewton; Robert Hendrix; Samuel Hendrix (Treasurer); P. W. Bacon (Clerk); Berry Bacon, Reuben Jones, Jr.; John Byrd; York Collins; Sam Levant; and J. L. Lee. Under the guidance of Reverend W. F. Underwood the church was rebuilt in 1939 and renovated in 1985 by Reverend William Wright.
Folk Art & Decoration in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery
Silk flowers in a variety of colors decorate graves of the recently deceased; a whimsical cookie jar stands sentinel over the grave of Lula Lee.
Though less common today, folk art headstones, as well as abundant decoration, were once found in many African-American cemeteries, a nod to the traditions of slave ancestors and the tribal customs of their native continent.
This memorial to veterans is likely the work of a Primous family member, as well as the concrete cross. It is painted white and marks nine gravestones of the Primous family. I first thought the elliptical rings beside the name to be eyes, but one viewer, Laurinda Norris, suggested they were more likely halos. I agree.
I fortunately had the opportunity to take this picture. The pig is located on my great grandmother Lula Lee. It was african culture when love one dies a favorite item were placed on the grave. The pig has been removed as of 2008.
I see them as halos, not eyes. It seem that eyes would have included an iris. Just a thought. I love the imagery of the photos.
I think you may be right, Laurinda!