Celebrating Black History Month in Rockingham County

This February, Rockingham County is honoring Black History Month by highlighting important and interesting historic sites across the county that celebrate the legacy and contributions of the long-standing (and thriving!) African American communities in the area. Special thanks to RootsRunDeep and the Shenandoah Valley Black Heritage Project for providing invaluable information on the above sites. Check out their websites for even more insights.

1. Rocktown History Museum: Celebrating the history of both Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County, Rocktown History Museum has one of the most robust collections of local artifacts, documents, and valuable objects in the area and touches on important topics such as the African American community of Zenda Countryside and the impact that slavery had on Rockingham County and its people. The museum's monthly workshops and events, like Coffee Mill Conversations, Third Thursday Talks, and more, offer all visitors the opportunity to engage actively with Rockingham’s history alongside professional curators and historians.

2. Linville Creek Church of the Brethren Cemetery: Located in Broadway, the Linville Creek Church of the Brethren Cemetery serves as the final resting space for the first generation of freed African Americans in Rockingham County. While many of the graves are, unfortunately, unmarked, there is a dedication displayed as well as informational plaques for any who are interested in learning more about the lives of those who were buried there.

Credit: Partners Excavating Co.

3. Roscoe Burgess Riverwalk: For a little fresh air, stroll down the Roscoe Burgess Riverwalk, a picturesque trail dedicated to the eponymous Roscoe Burgess. Not only was Burgess the first Black councilman ever elected in Bridgewater, but he was also one of the first players in the Black Rockingham County Baseball League, where he was inducted into the hall of fame in 2013, cementing himself as a local legend.

4. North River Baptist Church: Since 1889, the North River Baptist Church has served the town of Bridgewater, making it one of Rockingham County’s oldest African American churches that is still in use today. Join the congregation for their Sunday service, or watch their livestream on Facebook.

Are you a history buff? Check out even more of the county’s historic sites & museums HERE!