South-View Cemetery seeks inclusion on National Register of Historic Places

South-View Cemetery – the final resting place of Congressman John Lewis and baseball great Hank Aaron – has applied for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.

Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Winston is working with the Atlanta Preservation Center to make the application, according to a press release.

The cemetery was chartered in 1886 as a result of advocacy from Black Atlantans wanting a safe and secure place to bury their family members. Located in the Lakewood Heights neighborhood, it is now the final resting place of more than 90,000 people, including Moses Amos, Julian Bond, Grace Towns Hamilton, Alonzo Herndon, and numerous other historic Atlantans.�

“South-View Cemetery is the final resting place of many significant individuals, particularly civil rights legends who played pivotal roles in shaping our nation,” Winston said in the release. “The cemetery tells the Atlanta story, reflecting its significance as the epicenter of the Civil Rights Movement in our state and nationwide. The accomplishments of these giants must be protected, preserved, and highlighted for generations to come. I’m committed to continuing to work alongside the Atlanta Preservation Center to ensure the South-View Cemetery receives the recognition and resources it deserves.”�

The Atlanta Preservation Center is also coordinating the application with the South-View Cemetery Board and Verity Works, an Atlanta-based historic preservation consulting firm. Keeping the historical connection present and the cultural integrity intact is a top priority. The current President, Ms. Winifred Watts Hemphill, along with several stockholders, Board members and members of the staff are descendants of the founders.�

Listing in the National Register is the first step toward qualifying for federal preservation tax credits administered by the National Park Service. These tax credits have already generated more than $45 billion in private investment.

Additionally, listing makes sites eligible for National Park Service grant programs. Winston helped secure the $50,000 application fee required for listing in the National Register with Mayor Andre Dickens and full Atlanta City Council support.