News Summary
Branch Hill Memorial United Methodist Cemetery in Solway, TN, has been added to the Tennessee Historical Registry, recognizing its historical significance as a burial site for notable African Americans dating back to the 1800s. Efforts led by descendant Markeicha Mitchell aim to honor the cemetery’s legacy and preserve its history. Artifacts and documentation related to the cemetery are housed at the Tennessee State Museum, highlighting the contributions of the community’s African American families.
Solway, TN is celebrating a significant milestone with the recent inclusion of Branch Hill Memorial United Methodist Cemetery on the Tennessee Historical Registry. This recognition highlights the cemetery’s historical significance, particularly as a resting place for notable middle-class African Americans dating back to the early 1800s.
The cemetery is located on George Light Road in Solway and holds deep historical connections through the individuals interred there. The earliest grave in Branch Hill Cemetery is that of Willis McKamey, a farmer involved in the wheat industry, whose burial dates back to 1813. Willis was also an exhorter at the Methodist Episcopal Church, showcasing his active participation within the community.
Markeicha Mitchell, a descendant of the McKamey family, has played an instrumental role in raising awareness about the cemetery’s historical importance. Through her efforts, she aims to secure recognition from various local organizations, including the United Methodist Church and the Knox County Commission, emphasizing the need to honor her family’s legacy while preserving the cemetery.
The Branch Hill Memorial Cemetery is rich with history and notable individuals, such as Dr. Charles A. McKamey, a prominent medical practitioner who studied at Meharry Medical College and practiced in Knoxville. Dr. McKamey’s contributions extended beyond medicine; he owned properties, paid a poll tax, engaged in banking relationships, and held insurance, illustrating the socio-economic status of many families buried at the site.
Artifacts relating to the McKamey family are preserved at the Tennessee State Museum, including the original deed for Branch Hill Cemetery. This historical document outlines the initial transactions between significant individuals, namely Dr. Charles McKamey, William and Sarah McKamey, A. Rather, A. Carmichael, and Joseph Sharp, linking the cemetery to a broader historical narrative.
The cemetery’s association with a church that once stood on the premises, but was lost to a fire, further adds to its historical value. The current efforts to commemorate and recognize this site aim to shed light on the contributions of the African American community in the Solway area and preserve their collective memory.
Markeicha Mitchell’s grandmother, Johnnie Mae McKamey Hardin, is another link to this storied past. She was descended from those historical figures and played a vital role in community development, contributing land for Solway Park and the True Light Baptist Church. Such contributions underscore the importance of the cemetery as a symbol of heritage and community commitment.
The addition of Branch Hill Memorial Cemetery to the Tennessee Historical Registry serves as a testament to the rich and often overlooked history of African Americans in the region. It highlights the stories of individuals and families who shaped the community, enabling a deeper appreciation for their cultural and historical contributions.
As efforts continue to promote awareness and ensure the protection of Branch Hill Cemetery, local residents and descendants of those interred hope that this recognition will foster a renewed sense of pride and commitment to preserving their legacy for future generations.
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Additional Resources
- Knox Focus: Forgotten African American Cemetery Rests in Solway
- Wikipedia: African American History
- Knox News: Community Organization Restores Oldest Black Cemetery in Knoxville
- Google Search: African American Cultural Heritage Cemeteries
- WBIR: Restoration Efforts Underway at the Oldest Black Cemetery in Knoxville
- Google Scholar: African American Cemeteries
- Knox Focus: HVA Dance Team Helps Kids Put On a Show
- Encyclopedia Britannica: African American Cultural History
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
