Slave Burial Ground

In the northwest corner of Round Rock Cemetery lies a solemn and powerful reminder of lives often left out of history—the Slave Burial Ground. This half-acre plot, believed to have been established in the 1850s, was set aside for the burial of enslaved people and freedmen of Williamson County.

Unlike other African American cemeteries in the area, this burial ground was specifically designated for those individuals, making it one of the few of its kind in Texas. The most striking aspect of the site is the absence of formal tombstones—only large, local limestone rocks, some with hand-carved inscriptions, mark the 40 to 50 known graves. A simple wooden sign, cedar posts, and barbed wire fence marked its boundaries at one time, giving only a hint of the historical significance within. Formally recognized by a Texas Historical Commission marker in 1979, it contains graves dating as early as 1851. The earliest marked freedman’s grave is from 1880, and burials ceased by the early 1900s.

Oral histories and genealogical research have helped uncover the names of those buried here, such as Simon Johnson, Peter Clark, and members of the Pruitt and Biel families. These efforts reflect an enduring connection between present-day descendants and the individuals interred in this sacred space. For many years, the site was poorly maintained and rarely visited—a reflection of the broader neglect of Black history in local narratives.

However, recent efforts by the Round Rock Cemetery Association, Thomas H. Keithly Masonic Lodge, and local advocates have brought renewed attention and care to the site. A new sign and periodic ceremonies and events have helped reestablish its place in community memory. Preservation efforts continue, with the Round Rock Cemetery Association and the Slave Grave Committee working to identify those buried, which will educate the public about the site’s significance.

The Round Rock Slave Burial Ground is not just a cemetery—it is a place of reflection, remembrance, and truth. It serves as a physical reminder of the resilience and humanity of those who endured slavery and lived through the transition to freedom. Honoring this space is essential to preserving an honest account of Texas and Williamson County’s past. In doing so, we ensure that the contributions and stories of these individuals remain an enduring part of our shared history.

Author: Tina Steiner, Chairman Round Rock Cemetery Slave Grave Preservation Committee