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Councilwoman Phillips urges support for Greenlawn Cemetery restoration in Chester Township
Summary
Councilwoman Phillips described Greenlawn Cemetery as a historic African American burial ground founded in 1907, praised volunteer group Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery, and outlined needs including surveying, ground‑penetrating radar and legal support.
Councilwoman Christine Phillips told the Delaware County Council on May 20 that Greenlawn Cemetery in Chester Township is a "hidden historical place of importance" and urged continued support for volunteers working to restore and protect the site.
"The lifeline of this cemetery is tied to the dedicated volunteers, the Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery," Phillips said, noting the cemetery was founded in 1907 by Lawrence Murray Sr. and is one of the cemeteries identified in Pennsylvania as the resting place for African American veterans who served in the Civil War. She said volunteers and students from Williamson Trade School recently helped clear vegetation and brush.
Phillips listed work still needed at the site — survey work, ground‑penetrating radar, advocacy and legal work — and said the group has received some pro bono assistance. She encouraged residents who want to volunteer to contact the Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery.
The remark was made as part of the council's opening announcements; no formal motion or funding decision for the cemetery was recorded at the meeting. The council previously referenced involvement from federal and state elected officials and Veterans Affairs leadership during the visit, but Phillips did not announce specific county funding in this session. The council will take up funding or formal actions only if and when an item is placed on a future agenda.
