Our Mission: Preserving the legacy of Lexington’s Historic African American Cemetery and honoring the lives of our ancestors.
WHY YOUR ADOPTION MATTERS:
Your adoption becomes an act of love — a way to help restore dignity, preserve history, and ensure these stories are never lost. This sacred ground holds the lives and legacies of African American families who helped build Lexington, MO. Among them are veterans, enslaved individuals, Negro League players, and so many cherished fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters whose presence shaped the community.
Some graves have weathered with time, their names no longer visible. Yet even when a headstone can’t be read, the life it represents still matters. Symbolic adoptions allow us to honor those whose names may be forgotten but whose humanity and contributions remain deeply valued. We may not know who they were — but we honor them all the same.
HOW ADOPTIONS WORKS:
Simply visit our website to explore the profiles of the many loved ones and community members who rest within Forest Grove’s sacred grounds. From there, you can select from several meaningful ways to contribute a tax‑deductible donation, supporting the preservation and honor of these important histories.
As a result of your generosity, you will receive:
* A personalized Certificate of Adoption
* A biography of the individual you are honoring
* Recognition on our website and social media
* An invitation to our annual Adopters Days celebration
Your support directly funds mowing, cleaning, stone repair, documentation, stabilization and historical research.
ADOPTION LEVELS:
Basic Care $5-$50 - Supports mowing and seasonal upkeep
Preservation $50-$150 - Includes cleaning documentation and minor repairs
Full Restoration $150-$300+ - Supports professional stone cleaning, location of lost graves and stabilization
Thank you!
WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MAKES POSSIBLE:
- Restored headstones
- Clean and dignified resting places
- Documented family histories
- Educational programs for youth and visitors
- Public access to African American Heritage
Adopt a grave today and become a gentle guardian of Lexington’s African American heritage, helping ensure every life resting there continues to be remembered, honored, and cherished.
Visit our website, message us on Facebook or email us to receive more information or to answer any questions.