Westminster Cemetery Special Project

Whispers of Freedom

Westminster Cemetery Memorial Tour

Take a reflective journey through Westminster Cemetery with Whispers of Freedom — a guided tour honoring Lucy Behoe, Sally Key, and Beal Behoe, who overcame enslavement to become free members of the community. Discover their powerful stories of resilience and quiet triumph.

About Tour

Discover the legacy of Lucy Behoe, a skilled weaver who gained her freedom in 1842 and built a life with her children, owning property by 1850. Learn about Sally Key, who, after decades of enslavement, lived her final years as a free woman alongside Lucy. Hear the story of Beal Behoe, a free man by 1840, whose steadfast presence in Westminster reflects the strength of community. Through their narratives, we pay tribute to their enduring spirit and contributions, ensuring their stories resonate for generations to come.

The African American experience in Carroll County mirrors much like that throughout the Maryland and the old South. Here in the Historic Westminster Cemetery we have the remains of enslaved and free persons. Very few families had specific written records other than census, wills or court records. For the few individuals we could identify, we have collected information here and invite more accounts of our local history.

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