Volunteer

VOLUNTEER OLIVEWOOD

Why Volunteers Matter

Olivewood Cemetery stands as one of Houston’s most sacred landmarks, yet preserving its legacy requires consistent care and committed hands. Descendants of Olivewood depends on volunteers who are willing to give their time and energy to ensure this historic ground continues to tell the stories of those buried here. Every headstone cleared, every record documented, and every story preserved contributes to protecting the heritage of Houston’s first African American cemetery.

Grounds Maintenance and Landscaping

The cemetery sits on the banks of White Oak Bayou, where vegetation quickly overtakes the land. In the summer months, weeks of growth can undo months of work. Volunteers help us cut back overgrowth, clear walkways, and restore landscaping that has shifted with time. By joining a clean-up day on the first or third Saturday of the month, individuals and groups take an active role in reclaiming the cemetery and making it safe and accessible to families and visitors.

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VOLUNTEER OLIVEWOOD

Why Volunteers Matter

Olivewood Cemetery stands as one of Houston’s most sacred landmarks, yet preserving its legacy requires consistent care and committed hands. Descendants of Olivewood depends on volunteers who are willing to give their time and energy to ensure this historic ground continues to tell the stories of those buried here. Every headstone cleared, every record documented, and every story preserved contributes to protecting the heritage of Houston’s first African American cemetery.

Grounds Maintenance and Landscaping

The cemetery sits on the banks of White Oak Bayou, where vegetation quickly overtakes the land. In the summer months, weeks of growth can undo months of work. Volunteers help us cut back overgrowth, clear walkways, and restore landscaping that has shifted with time. By joining a clean-up day on the first or third Saturday of the month, individuals and groups take an active role in reclaiming the cemetery and making it safe and accessible to families and visitors.

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Since 1875

Historical Research and Education

Many people first discover Olivewood while researching their own family histories. Volunteers are invited to join our efforts to compile burial records, organize archival materials, and expand the historical database. This research not only helps descendants connect with their ancestors but also supports the creation of educational resources that can be shared in schools, libraries, and community organizations.

Oral Histories and Family Stories

Though Olivewood opened in 1875, many stories remain untold. Volunteers assist in reaching out to descendants and collecting oral histories from families connected to those buried here. These interviews and written accounts allow us to capture personal memories before they are lost and ensure that the voices of Olivewood’s community are preserved for generations to come.

Since 1875

Historical Research and Education

Many people first discover Olivewood while researching their own family histories. Volunteers are invited to join our efforts to compile burial records, organize archival materials, and expand the historical database. This research not only helps descendants connect with their ancestors but also supports the creation of educational resources that can be shared in schools, libraries, and community organizations.

Oral Histories and Family Stories

Though Olivewood opened in 1875, many stories remain untold. Volunteers assist in reaching out to descendants and collecting oral histories from families connected to those buried here. These interviews and written accounts allow us to capture personal memories before they are lost and ensure that the voices of Olivewood’s community are preserved for generations to come.

♰ When we preserve Olivewood, we honor the lives that built our future ♰ When we preserve Olivewood, we honor the lives that built our future ♰

Fundraising and Community Support

Not every volunteer role takes place on the grounds. Those with skills in fundraising, grant writing, or event planning play a key role in securing the resources needed to continue preservation.


From organizing benefit events to helping us build sustainable funding, volunteers ensure that Olivewood’s restoration can continue far into the future.

Wildlife and Survey Projects

The cemetery’s location on White Oak Bayou makes it a refuge for plant and animal life. Volunteers help us identify native species, protect habitats, and provide educational resources for visitors interested in the natural environment of Olivewood. Others assist with surveys and mapping projects that document newly uncovered gravesites as the grounds are cleared. These efforts provide a more complete picture of Olivewood’s history and help us care for newly revealed plots with respect.

Our Database

Explore Our Database

At the heart of Olivewood is the record of more than 4,000 burials. Our searchable database allows families, researchers, and community members to learn more about the men, women, and children interred here. With every name and story preserved, we continue the work of connecting descendants to their history and honoring those who came before us.

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Our Database

Explore Our Database

At the heart of Olivewood is the record of more than 4,000 burials. Our searchable database allows families, researchers, and community members to learn more about the men, women, and children interred here. With every name and story preserved, we continue the work of connecting descendants to their history and honoring those who came before us.

CEMETERY RECORDS

GET IN TOUCH

Get Involved Today

Whether you are clearing brush, compiling research, interviewing families, or planning a fundraiser, your contribution directly strengthens the preservation of Olivewood. Volunteers transform the grounds, honor the lives of those interred, and bring Houston’s African American history into focus for the entire community.



To join, please complete the volunteer waiver and review our training video before your first visit. Contact us at info@descendantsofolivewood.org or leave a voicemail at (713) 396-0640 to learn more. We look forward to welcoming you to Olivewood and working alongside you to preserve this sacred place.

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