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St. Nicholas Creek Burial Ground

Discovery of the Site

An official Charles County Historic Site, the St. Nicholas Creek Burial Ground was discovered in 2012 after a severe storm uprooted a tree on the Serenity Farm property. After careful consideration, the remains were exhumed by archaeologists and their studies revealed clues about the burial customs of the enslaved population at the time.

The remains date from 1790 to 1810 and have now been identified as the resting place for 23 individuals including men, women and children. The remains were reburied after the study was completed. 

Burial Ground Commemorative Plaque

'Remembered by the Wind' Documentary

In partnership with the Farm Heritage Conservancy, director Joe Habraken and farm co-owner Frank Robinson, Jr. created a documentary about the exploration of the burial ground after a 2012 storm made investigation of the site possible.

That weather event brought about an archaeological and forensic quest by the farm owners, a team of experts from the Maryland State Highways Archeological Division, and the local African American community that resulted in the discovery of an African American Slave cemetery dating back to the period, 1790-1810.
Full body reconstruction of man discovered at burial ground
Facial reconstruction of man found at Burial Ground

Visiting the St. Nicholas Creek Burial Ground

The site has an interpretative marker and is maintained with native grasses and wildflowers remaining true to the period of its existence, 1790-1810. On the marker, visitors will see an illustrative facial reconstruction of the person buried in grave 13 based on the archeological findings done in 2013.

Visitors must make an appointment to explore the area or request a tour. The tour includes a detailed retelling of the fascinating story behind the burial ground’s discovery and the people buried there. The tour also includes a “remembering the names” ceremony to honor their memories. To schedule a tour, call us at (301) 399-1634.
CONTACT US

Contact Serenity Farm


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    Address

    6932 Serenity Farm Rd, Benedict, MD 20612

    Phone number

    (301) 399-1634