Historic Pine Forest Cemetery

04/21/2026

Pine Forest Cemetery extends our sincere thanks to Work on Wilmington and Jarett Gattison for coming out and making a meaningful difference in our cemetery.

We also had the pleasure of working alongside Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Alliance for Cape Fear Trees, our dedicated Board members, and many other volunteers who gave their time and energy this past Saturday.

Your service, support, and commitment to our community are truly appreciated. We are incredibly grateful!

04/21/2026

On February 20th, we proudly honored both past and present Superintendents of Pine Forest Cemetery at the NHC Heritage Award Banquet.

Mr. Jimmy Lofton faithfully served as Superintendent for decades, dedicating his time and heart to preserving the rich history and beauty of Pine Forest Cemetery. Today, Mr. Sankey Bryant continues that legacy, working alongside Mr. Lofton to ensure the cemetery remains well cared for through hands-on service and commitment.

We also recognize Mrs. Helyn Lofton, whose compassion and service as a nurse deeply impacted the community.

The Pine Forest Cemetery family and the greater community are truly grateful for their leadership, dedication, and love. Because of them, Pine Forest Cemetery remains a cherished symbol of peace and heritage for the Wilmington Black community.

02/25/2026

✨ Wilmington Legacy Spotlight ✨

Today, we honor Mary Washington Howe, a trailblazing educator and pillar of Black excellence in Wilmington.

Mary Washington Howe made history as the first and only female principal of Williston Graded School, where she dedicated her life to educating and uplifting Black children during a time when access to quality education was limited.

Her leadership helped shape generations, strengthen families, and lay the foundation for a community of pride, knowledge, and opportunity within Wilmington’s Black community.

Her life reminds us:
📚 Education is empowerment.
🖤 Black women have always led and shaped our communities.
🌱 The seeds we plant today will grow for generations.

Let’s continue to honor the educators who carried our communities forward. As we celebrate Black History 365, let us also remember those who are laid to rest at Pine Forest Cemetery.

02/25/2026

Abraham Galloway, a fearless freedom fighter, Union spy, and political leader who made a powerful impact right here in Wilmington.

Born enslaved in Southport, North Carolina in 1837, Galloway escaped bo***ge, joined the Union cause, and became a key organizer for Black troops and civil rights during Reconstruction. He later served as a North Carolina state senator, fighting for voting rights, education, and equality for people formerly enslaved.

Abraham Galloway died in Wilmington in 1870 and was laid to rest at Pine Forest Cemetery. Though time has erased the exact location of his grave, his legacy remains deeply rooted in our community and in the ongoing struggle for justice.

His life is a reminder that courage, resistance, and leadership have always lived among us.

02/12/2026

🌿 Black History 365 at Pine Forest Cemetery 🌿

Black history is not just a month; it’s a legacy that lives every day. At Pine Forest Cemetery, we honor and preserve the stories of those who paved the way, celebrated the triumphs, and endured the struggles that shaped our community.

This Black History Month, we reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and commit to remembering history 365 days a year.

Join us in honoring the lives, stories, and contributions of the remarkable individuals resting at Pine Forest Cemetery. 🖤

02/07/2026

✨ Join us for a lovely evening in support of preservation and legacy✨

All funds raised will benefit Pine Forest Cemetery, helping to ensure the continued care, restoration, and stewardship of this historic site.

https://nhcnaacp.org

01/19/2026

12/18/2025

African American cemeteries are more than resting places; they are vital pieces of our history. They preserve the stories, culture, and resilience of communities often overlooked in history books. Protecting and honoring these cemeteries ensures that the legacy of those who came before us is never forgotten. 🕊️✨
pineforestcemetery.org

11/12/2025