For Immediate Release

 

 

Community Invited to Volunteer at Historic Black Cemetery Clean-up; Hands-on Learning Experience set for Saturday, July 19

Hands-On Learning Experience Set for Saturday, July 19

 

    

PINE MOUNTAIN, GA (JUNE 19, 2025) – The Chipley Historical Center (CHC), in partnership with Bethany Missionary Baptist Church, invites the public to participate in a Public Clean-Up Day at the church’s historic Black cemetery on Saturday, July 19, 2025, beginning at 8 a.m. This event offers not only an opportunity to volunteer and connect with community members, but also a chance to learn proper and safe techniques for cleaning grave sites without causing damage.

 

“As we continue to help our community better understand those who came before us, it is important to protect the heritage of the places and things that share that information—such as cemeteries,” said Curtis Bray, church deacon and Pine Mountain City Council member. “This is not just a clean-up. It’s a learning experience. We’ll be showing participants how to carefully and respectfully preserve these sacred sites.”

 

The cemetery is located at 16331 GA-18 West, Pine Mountain, GA 31822. Volunteers are encouraged to wear work clothes and closed-toe shoes, and to bring tools such as clippers or weed eaters if available. Parking will be available in the church lot and once full, across the street at the recycling center.

 

Free food and refreshments will be provided by church members, including hot dogs, side dishes, desserts, and drinks. The event is open to all who wish to take part.

 

“It is important to preserve the past, which helps to shape the present and future generations,” said Josephine Bray, Pine Mountain Town Counsellor and a member of Bethany Baptist Church.

A Brief History of Bethany Missionary Baptist Church

 

Historical records show that Bethany originally held meetings in various locations. In February 1885, the church was relocated to land on the south side of Highway 18. A devastating storm in 1908 destroyed the church, leaving only its floor. Thanks to support from members and the surrounding communities as well as the temporary use of Mt. Zion Church, the church was rebuilt and recommitted itself to serving the Pine Mountain area. On June 8, 1952, Bethany celebrated the remounting of its cornerstone. Under the leadership of Reverend William Robinson since May 2001, the church has continued to upgrade its facilities while honoring its deep roots.

 

For more information about the event, contact Whitney Ligon, CHC board member and Bethany Baptist Church member, at (706) 350-9903.

 

The Chipley Historical Center is located at 146 McDougald Ave, Pine Mountain, Ga., 31822, and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To learn more, call (706) 663-4044 or email info@chipleyhistoriccenter.org.

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About the Chipley Historical Center

Established in 1985, the Chipley Historical Center of Pine Mountain is a dedicated institution committed to the collection and preservation of historical documents, photographs, and the rich heritage of the local area. Its mission is to become the premier genealogy and history center in West Central Georgia. Housed within the original City Hall, a structure dating back to the early 1900s on McDougald Avenue, the center has been painstakingly restored, earning it a place on the National Register of Historical Places. The center welcomes contributions of historical significance, including old letters, photographs, land grants, deeds, diaries, newspapers, and more, with a focus on permanent preservation. The restoration of the old City Hall was made possible through the generous support of the community and various organizations. Ongoing support for the center's projects is garnered through direct donations, membership dues, and volunteer assistance. The center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. ET to 4 p.m. (Please check with the Center for holiday hours of operation).