The Mt. Union Cemetery, founded in 1882 by Nathan Cathey and other men seeking new lives post-slavery, stands as a testament to their enduring legacy. Cathey, a Civil War veteran, saved his pension, purchased land, and relocated his entire family to the Blackton, Arkansas area. During the Progressive Era, Cathey and others transformed Blackton into a thriving and prominent community, boasting grocery stores, sawmills, cotton gins, and social clubs.

Cathey established the Mt. Union Church of Christ, now known as the Blackton CoC. This church is the oldest independent African American CoC in Arkansas and ranks among the oldest in the United States. Cathey also served as an Elder for the Pleasant Union CoC, one of the nation’s first churches. Along with Jefferson Bennett and Minister Frank Sowell, he commissioned several pioneering ministers of the African American CoC during and after slavery.

Self-taught in reading and writing through Bible study by the fireside, Cathey collaborated with renowned ministers such as Bill Phillips, Sam Womack, Levi Kennedy, and Alexander Campbell. He was also the maternal grandfather of R.N. Hogan, the distinguished gospel minister known nationwide as the “boy preacher.” Cathey’s profound scholarship and teachings left an indelible mark.

In 1911, Cathey formally donated half an acre of land to the church, cementing the cemetery’s establishment. He passed away in 1918, and he, along with his wife Francis and many others, are buried there. The cemetery holds over 100 burials, many of which are military and historic, spanning over a century.

MUCPA is partnering with the Arkansas Historic Preservation Association (AHPA) to secure a historic marker highlighting the significance of the location. The association also plans to maintain existing historical burials, secure fencing and control erosion of current grounds.

In 2023, MUCPA launched the Mt. Union Garden, which was subsequently recognized as a ‘People’s Garden’ by the USDA Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovation. This community initiative is dedicated to educating the public on sustainable farming practices, fostering habitats for pollinators and wildlife, and creating a welcoming greenspace for neighbors to enjoy.

Join us in preserving this beautiful American legacy by donating today. Your support will help us achieve our goal and make a lasting impact.