WEST CHESTER, PA — Friends of Shiloh AME Church and Cemetery (FoS) held a poignant ceremony last weekend, recreating a 160-year-old tradition to honor 14 Civil War United States Colored Troops (USCT) interred at the historic Westtown cemetery.
The event, modeled after the first Decoration Day on May 1, 1865, drew inspiration from the solemn tribute organized by freed Black Americans in Charleston, SC, to honor Union soldiers. Held at the Old Chester County Courthouse, the May 17 commemoration highlighted the contributions of Black soldiers in the fight for freedom during the Civil War.
Rev. Dr. Richelle Gunter, pastor at St. Paul’s Baptist Church and president of the West Chester NAACP, reflected on the origins of Decoration Day and the powerful symbolism of its inaugural parade. Adding a personal touch, Lonnie Nichols, a descendant of two USCT soldiers buried at Shiloh AME Cemetery, performed his original composition, “Generations,” in tribute to his ancestors and their legacy.
David Walter, representing the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War and FoS, brought Frederick Douglass’ 1863 call to arms to life. Speaking at Horticultural Hall in West Chester, Douglass had urged Black men to enlist in the Union Army to “bury rebellion and slavery in a common grave.”
The names of the 14 USCT veterans buried at the cemetery were solemnly read aloud. The ceremony concluded with a traditional honor guard salute, marked by three volleys and the sounding of Taps.
Since its founding in 2023, FoS has worked tirelessly to preserve the cemetery located at Shiloh and Little Shiloh roads in Chester County. The cemetery, which holds over 140 graves, had been abandoned and neglected for years. Beyond physical restoration efforts, the group focuses on educating the community about the site’s historical relevance.
To further commemorate its rich legacy, FoS has raised funds to install a historical marker near the cemetery. A dedication ceremony for the marker is planned for the spring of 2026.
This past weekend’s event served as both a celebration and a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of the USCT soldiers, ensuring their stories remain a vital part of Chester County’s heritage.
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