The Iredell County Public Library was recently awarded a $20,000 grant in order to conduct a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey of the Green Street Cemetery to verify the number of burials. This grant will help establish Green Street Cemetery as a designated historic site. The cemetery is believed to be the oldest cemetery in Statesville and the largest in the county for former slaves. The area is in the process of being cleared of brush. Library officials expect the ground-penetrating radar survey to be scheduled for March 28th, weather depending. The library is collaborating with the City of Statesville, Statesville Branch NAACP #5454, and Downtown Statesville for this project.
The public is invited to attend a library program, “Exploring the Green Street Cemetery,” which will focus on the historical significance of the cemetery and the Green/Garfield Street District as well as the current project to conduct ground-penetrating radar survey at the site. This program will take place Tuesday, February 21, at 5:30 p.m. and Thursday, February 23, at 6 p.m. at the Statesville library. Register online and learn about other upcoming local history programs by clicking here.