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2nd Annual Bethel Cemetery Restoration & Veterans Ceremony
November 9 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Join us on Saturday, November 9th, as we work to restore the historic Bethel Memorial Park Cemetery in Huntington, WV, a significant burial site for the city’s Black community from 1927 to 1974. After years of neglect, the Mountwest Principles of Marketing class, in collaboration with the Bethel Preservation Society, is leading efforts to raise awareness and preserve this important part of our local history. This year, for Veterans Day, we’re hosting our second annual cemetery restoration event, along with a formal ceremony to honor the veterans buried at Bethel.
You do not need to participate in the morning cleanup to attend the ceremony at noon; and this event is open to everyone. We are honored to have several guest speakers, including Dr. Cicero M. Fain III, Assistant Provost of Inclusive Excellence at Marshall University, Dr. Josh Baker, President of Mountwest CTC, and Teresa Johnson, Huntington City Councilwoman, among others.
During the cemetery restoration and cleanup from 10 AM to 12 PM, we will clean headstones, remove brush and trim weeds, and reset veteran markers that are sinking or leaning. We will also honor each veteran buried at Bethel by placing an American flag at their grave. Students who participate can earn community service hours.
What to Bring & Wear:
• Wear fall-appropriate layers and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes are essential. Gloves are recommended.
• If possible, bring shovels, rakes, or weed eaters for the cleanup. We will have tools and supplies available on-site as well.
• Refreshments and snacks will be available for all attendees.
This is a rain or shine event, and even an hour or two of your time can make a big difference. We encourage students, families, friends, and community members to join us.
• Wear fall-appropriate layers and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes are essential. Gloves are recommended.
• If possible, bring shovels, rakes, or weed eaters for the cleanup. We will have tools and supplies available on-site as well.
• Refreshments and snacks will be available for all attendees.
This is a rain or shine event, and even an hour or two of your time can make a big difference. We encourage students, families, friends, and community members to join us.
PARKING: Please do NOT park inside the cemetery, especially after 11:30. It’s recommended that if you’re attending the cemetery grounds cleaning, to park close by with street parking. You can park along Perry Avenue and Bethel Road but be sure not to block any driveways. It a short walk into the cemetery.
If you’re attending the ceremony at noon, please use the Crossroads Baptist Church parking lot.
We will be operating a 16-person passenger van between the Crossroads Baptist Church parking lot and the Bethel cemetery. You can park in the church parking lot between 11:30 – Noon and the passenger van will shuttle you in and out of the cemetery. It’s also close enough to walk over on foot, but be cautious when crossing Norwood Road, as cars turning from Norway Avenue do not have to stop and often drive quickly.
For questions or additional information, contact Josh Keck at keck11@mctc.edu or call 304-654-0075.
