Small group works to upkeep graves including those of Buffalo Soldiers; looking for more volunteers

MOBILE, Ala. ( WKRG ) — A North Alabama man travels to Mobile every three weeks to make a dent in an overgrown cemetery where the graves of Buffalo Soldiers are hidden in the brush. He’s looking for more local volunteers.

While many people spent their Memorial Day on the beach or grilling with friends, Alvin Crawford, a military veteran, started knocking down overgrown weeds and trees at 7 a.m. at the Oaklawn Cemetery.

“I came down in search, about five years ago, trying to find my in-laws’ graves,” Crawford said. “At that time, the graveyard was overgrown as you can still see.”

Many of the visible headstones at Oaklawn Cemetery can only be seen peeking over the tall weeds or hiding through the thick brush. Standing next to many of them are neglected American flags.

“God knows, they can’t do it for themselves,” Crawford said. “Why can’t we take care of them and help them along the way?”

The Oaklawn Cemetery is not owned by the city and is private property. However, it is abandoned.

The Alabama Historical Commission does not regulate cemetery maintenance and cannot force owners to maintain their cemeteries. The commission’s role with historic cemeteries is to maintain the Alabama Historic Cemetery Register and issue cemetery permits.

Individuals are allowed to maintain sections of the Oaklawn Cemetery at their own will.

“We can go to the beach on days like today, but this is Memorial Day, and there’s a saying that ‘We all gave some, but some gave all,'” Crawford said. “I see flags up and down the highway on the back of trucks, supporting and screaming about veterans. I don’t want you to talk to me about it; I want you to be about it.”

Crawford urged local volunteers to step up regularly to help maintain the cemetery.

“All things are done in moderation… With the help of the people of Mobile coming forward and stepping forward, we’ll make a big effort next time,” Crawford said.

Crawford plans to be back at the cemetery on June 15 to continue working.

“If nothing else, have respect. Because one day, surely to goodness, you’re gonna die,” Crawford said.

For those interested in helping, Crawford can be reached at (256) 245-1025. Crawford is from Sylacauga, Alabama.

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