Memorial Park, created in 1974 as a recreation area for the surrounding community, stands on the site of Lincoln Cemetery. Originally named the African Cemetery of Carlisle, Lincoln Cemetery was in use as early as 1806.
Several hundred African-American men, women, and children are buried here including at least forty Civil War veterans, five of whom served in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry that led the assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina in July, 1863.
It is believed that Mrs. Elizabeth Peck, who died Aug. 20, 1826, is also buried here. She was the mother of John Peck, the abolitionist and underground railroad activist, who harbored and transported slaves from Carlisle. He and his mother were members of Bethel A.M.E. Church.
The latest interment occurred in June 2002, when the ashes of Barry Keith Campbell, who grew up across the street from the cemetery, were scattered over the park.
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