Oakwood Cemetary is the oldest city owned cemetery in Austin. This area of the cemetery is where people of color were buried in the 1800’s. There’s no doubt that many of the past residents of Clarksville and Wheatville rest here today. Jacob Fontaine, one of Austin’s most notable African American leaders is buried here in an unmarked grave. Check out his historical marker near the entrance that faces I-35.

According to the cemetery’s registry, one of the first recorded burials was a young African American man. He was:

• First name Henry, last name unknown
• 20 yrs old 
• Buried July 26, 1866 
• Cause of death: drowning 
• A laborer who came here with the army

He lived only 1 year after being freed from slavery. Wild, huh? 

Further reading:
History of African American Cemeteries – Article 
Oakwood Cemetery Records of Burials for People of Color – Video