[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18961]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



 CENTRAL NEW JERSEY CELEBRATES THE REDEDICATION OF THE LAMINGTON BLACK 
           CEMETERY AND HONORS THE EFFORTS OF ITS ORGANIZERS

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                           HON. RUSH D. HOLT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 4, 2001

  Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and celebrate the 
rededication of the Lamington Black Cemetery located in Somerset 
County, New Jersey and to honor those responsible for undertaking this 
reclamation effort.
  Until a year ago, this rich history of New Jersey's African-American 
heritage was a hidden treasure lost among snarled tree roots and 
overgrown vegetation. But thanks to the efforts of many concerned 
citizens, the ``old slave cemetery'', its nearly three centuries of 
history and more than 100 graves--both marked and unmarked--have been 
preserved and rededicated.
  For more than a year, neighbors and friends, brothers and coworkers, 
pastors and congregants have come together to rebuild and reclaim this 
small one acre cemetery. They have donated their time, talents and 
treasures to restore the peace and dignity those resting in this 
hallowed ground deserve.
  At this time in our Nation's history, when we struggle to find solace 
and meaning in the acts of terror against us, we can gain strength and 
perspective from those buried in the Lamington Black Cemetery and those 
working to preserve our heritage. Theirs is a story of slavery, of war, 
and of freedom. Most importantly though, they are a genuine example of 
the dignity of human life, the strength of community and the pride of 
America.
  Mr. Speaker, again, I celebrate this rededication and honor those who 
are buried and those who have worked so diligently to bring their 
memories back to life. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing 
this invaluable contribution to our community and New Jersey.

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