20,000 People Buried In Mass Grave Here 166 Years Ago! Smallpox Cemetery

In this compelling episode of Adventures into History, Cecil Young and I embark on a search through the dense woods of Macon County, Georgia, seeking the elusive "Smallpox Cemetery." This historic site, located between two railroads near the Flint River, was once a significant burial ground for victims of a devastating smallpox epidemic in the late 1850s. Some sources suggest it was also an Indian burial ground before the arrival of European settlers.

Our exploration takes us through overgrown terrain as we attempt to locate any remaining traces of the cemetery. The site, which had once played a crucial role in dealing with the epidemic, now shows no visible markers or boundaries. The original three grave markers, which were reported to have been present in the 1970s, are now missing, leaving us with little to guide our search.

The Smallpox Cemetery was historically known to be the final resting place for many individuals who died during the smallpox outbreak. Notable figures buried here include:

James 'Jimmie' Williams: A great uncle of C. T. Harden, Williams was known for his kindheartedness and bravery. He helped bury many victims of the epidemic before ultimately succumbing to the disease himself.

Mary Moody: Daughter of Joel Moody and Ann (Beall) Moody, and wife of Josiah Moody, Sr. She was a mother of several children and grandmother of Mary Bethia Moody English. Mary Moody died during the epidemic in 1858.

Elizabeth, consort of William Robinson: She died on June 11, 1851, before the major smallpox outbreak, but her burial site was associated with the cemetery due to its use during the epidemic.

In our search, we also discuss the inaccuracies in historical records. For example, the previous account that Rev. P. L. J. May and his family had succumbed to smallpox at this site has been corrected. Updated information reveals that Rev. May and his family survived the epidemic.

This video provides a detailed look at our search for the Smallpox Cemetery, reflecting on both the tragic history of the site and the challenges of preserving accurate historical records. Join us as we delve into the stories of those buried here and explore the remnants of a past marked by disease and hardship.