AshMemorialCemetery- Sandy Spring, Md

Family,

A brief history of Sandy Spring. Sandy Spring is one of the oldest free black communities in Maryland. This area was settled in 1713 by Quakers and their enslaved persons. During the early 1800 Quakers, well before federal or state emancipation, reversed their stance on slavery and began releasing individuals held in bondage. During this time other free persons began to move into the new emerging African American Community. In 1822 Sharp Street United Methodist Church was established and today is THE oldest Black church in Montgomery County. The Sisters Mutual Aid Society of Sharp Street cared provided support for bereaved families. This group acquired land for the burials of their parishioners. Cedar Mount Cemetery, now Mutual Memorial, was established in 1873 and later Ash Memorial around about 1890’s as Cedar Mount began to fill. Both cemeteries are a part of Montgomery Preservation The inhabitants of these hallowed grounds, both free and enslaved, experienced a history that spanned the American Civil War to the election of the first African American U.S. President. Ash Memorial is filled with the joys, struggles, determination, and progress experienced in an emerging African American Community. Ash Memorial is the resting place of 400+ free and enslaved souls, more than 50 military graves dating back to the civil war as well as a famous Jazz musician. Sandy Spring is not a “community” by the traditional definition. Because of our long history in this one area eventually every home, every piece of land and, every last name is connected. The original settlers’ descendants of Sandy Spring are all blood relatives.

Recently, with the influx of outsiders in to our communities we find ourselves constantly fighting to keep our sacred lands. Outsiders that do not care about our ancestors sacrifice. They only see what they can steal for self gain. Ash Memorial has the displeasure of dealing with a neighbor that is constantly encroaching on the property. Attempting to bully claim what they know is not theirs.

With previous donations we were able to have the survey completed and the fence installed. Now, we are asking for donations to cover the cost of lawyer fees. Ash is being sued for alteration of property lines by false adverse possession by these outsiders.

We are very appreciative of any donation you are able to spare.

We must keep our Black cemeteries from being taken away.