For nearly a century, many of Frederick's African American residents were laid to rest here in the Laboring Sons Cemetery. As the name implies, they repaired the shoes, painted the houses, cleaned the stables, nursed the sick, and performed countless other tasks necessary for the daily function of local businesses and households.
Others moved away for employment, their remains shipped back to Frederick by freight train, to be buried at home. Some former slaves lie here along with military veterans. At least eight individuals buried here served in the U. S. Colored Troops during the Civil War.
Buried with Honor
Following services in his home on DeGrange Street, the funeral procession of Civil War veteran Morton Stewart crossed town to his final resting place on April 1, 1910. Ceremoniously draped in a 46-star American flag, his coffin was respectfully carried to the grave by four pallbearers. As a soldier, Mr. Stewart served with the U. S. Colored Troops. After the war, he was a member of Frederick's Kilpatrick Colored Post, Grand Army of the Republic.
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