African Cemetery at Higgs Beach, United States historic place
The African Cemetery at Higgs Beach is a burial ground in Key West holding remains of nearly 300 people rescued from illegal slave ships in 1860. The site is marked with columns and plaques that tell the stories of those interred there.
The cemetery originated after the U.S. Navy rescued Africans from illegal slave ships heading toward Cuba, with many dying from diseases like typhoid and dysentery. The site gained National Register of Historic Places status in 2012 and stands as one of the few places in the United States where graves of Africans from the slave trade can be visited and remembered.
The cemetery displays Adinkra symbols from African cultures, with handcuff imagery representing justice and restraint during the time of slavery. These cultural markers allow visitors to understand the site's meaning and show respect for the dignity of those buried here.
The grounds sit near the White Street Pier with accessible parking, though spaces can be limited during peak times. It is a quiet place for walking and reflection, with nearby facilities offering water sports equipment and dining options.
Archaeologists discovered the graves in the early 2000s using ground-penetrating radar, uncovering hundreds of previously unknown burials. This scientific discovery prompted the community to create a memorial that honors the hidden history of the site.
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