Magnolia Cemetery is a place rooted deeply in both African American heritage and community stewardship. It began before the Civil War as part of a 73-acre tract belonging to the Evergreen Cemetery Company. The eastern half of this land was designated for White residents, while the western half became the burial ground for Black residents, a reflection of segregation at the time. Over time, people began referring to the cemetery on the western side as “the cemetery with the magnolia trees,” which gave rise to its enduring name: Magnolia Cemetery.
In 1899, the Magnolia Cemetery Company formally purchased the 36-acre western parcel for $400. Two years later, in 1901, it incorporated as a nonprofit entity to manage, maintain, and protect the cemetery. Its constitution specified that operations were never to be conducted for profit. The first Board of Trustees, made up of fifteen men, governed the cemetery’s affairs, establishing bylaws, regulating sales and upkeep fees, and ensuring proper care of the grounds.
Throughout the 20th century, the distinction between the Magnolia Cemetery Company and the Magnolia Cemetery Association became blurred. However, the Association is recognized today as the legal successor. It emerged out of community concern and emotional connection, motivated by love, remembrance, and a desire to preserve a historically and culturally significant burial ground.
By the 1980s, the cemetery faced serious deterioration due to vandalism, neglect, and erosion. With many grave markers damaged or lost, local leaders took action. Reverend G. R. Mazique convened a meeting on May 6, 1986, at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church to rally community members. Their discussions led to the official formation of the Magnolia Cemetery Association later that month on Memorial Day, May 26, when its bylaws were formally adopted.
Magnolia Cemetery stands today as a testament to the endurance, memory, and collective effort of the African American community of Phillips County, symbolizing both historical struggle and communal resilience.