We invite everyone to come out and see the difference a little dedication can make.

Drive straight out North Union Street about 14 blocks to the Watkins Street Cemetery. The cemetery is 17 acres, a lot of land for one person or one small non-profit group to clean up and maintain with no funding other than small individual donations amounting to approximately $100 a month or less and one yearly fundraiser.

The cemetery is divided into 19 sections with two back sections undeveloped. It costs approximately $75 to $125 a section per month to clear and maintain it. We were overwhelmed and unable to keep the cemetery clear.

Then, in December, the Master Gardners, collected donations of cash and machines and had a fundraiser tea that raised $2,300. In total, they donated $4,000 and workers.

We were able to completely clear the area except for removal of some storm damaged trees.

Our most recent help came from New Zion Baptist Church and other individuals who removed much debris.

We found that it takes approximately $1,500 a month to maintain this cemetery.

We are deeply grateful for all the help and donations that we received.

But our small group cannot manage the upkeep and maintenance, so we will be campaigning for the county or city to take on this “other city cemetery,” if the law allows.

What the city has done, which is very little, under the public nuisance law is not enough.

Imagine calling the burial site of thousands of Natchez citizens a public nuisance.

We need help and will petition if we have to.

Spring is arriving and the weeds and grass are growing up again. The work of the December volunteers re-grows quickly.

On March 21 the cemetery will host walking tours to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Watkins Street Cemetery.

Thelma White is the organizer of the Worthy Women of Watkins Street Cemetery.