Preserving a Legacy at Covington Cemetery

Panama City Protects its Past: Unveiling the History of Covington Cemetery

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Panama City, Florida, lies a quiet haven – the Covington Cemetery. For over a century, this sacred ground has safeguarded the memories of countless individuals, a testament to the rich history of the city’s African-American community.

Yet, the Covington Cemetery’s journey has not been without challenges. Throughout its existence, it has faced numerous threats of being repurposed for other uses, a fate that has unfortunately befallen many similar cemeteries across the state.

However, a tide of change is turning. Recognizing the immense cultural and historical significance of Covington Cemetery, Panama City officials have taken a strong stance towards its preservation.

Recently, the city unveiled a historic marker at the cemetery, a symbolic gesture that acknowledges its importance and ensures its story will continue to be told. This marker stands as a beacon of hope, promising a future where Covington Cemetery will be cherished and protected for generations to come.

The new historic marker was unveiled at Covington Cemetery in Panama City, Florida, on Tuesday, Jan. 16th, 2024. The ceremony was attended by city officials, representatives from the Panama City Publishing Company Museum, and Florida State University Panama City.

The address of the Covington Cemetery is 1525 Lisenby Avenue. Having buried his wife and daughter there, Richard Covington founded it in 1914. The cemetery occupies a stretch of land between Lisenby and Fairland Avenues, between 15th and 16th Street.

As the city started to transform in the 1950s, there were worries that the cemetery would be developed over. A Covington family descendant named Mamie Richardson had the land surveyed and fenced in 1958 so that it could be used as a private cemetery.

The new historic marker is a step toward preserving the history of the Covington Cemetery. The Bay County Historical Society will also be holding a presentation about the cemetery on May 22 at the Bay County Library.

By remembering and honoring the individuals laid to rest within Covington Cemetery, we honor the sacrifices and contributions of generations past. We ensure their voices are not silenced, their struggles not forgotten, and their impact on the city never diminished.

The unveiling of the historical marker is just the beginning. More efforts are underway to restore and document the cemetery’s history, including research to identify unmarked graves and educational initiatives to raise awareness about its cultural significance.

As Panama City embraces its diverse past and protects its sacred spaces, the Covington Cemetery stands as a reminder of the enduring human spirit and the power of community in preserving our heritage. It is a place where the past guides us towards a brighter future.