Restoring History: A Day with the Harnett County Cemetery Preservation Group

Last weekend, I had the privilege of joining the Harnett County Cemetery Preservation Group on a mission to restore a small but significant family plot for the Gregory family. This dedicated group is committed to preserving local cemeteries and honoring the individuals who have shaped our community's rich history.

Gregory Family History

Randal “Max” Gregory

I had the opportunity to speak with Randle "Max" Gregory, the grandson of Neil Randal Gregory, who shared fascinating insights into the family's history. Neil Stephenson, who married into the family, was also present. The original immigrant, William Robert Gregory, and his two sons, William Thomas and John Norman, hailed from Scotland and settled in Bertie County. His son, WilliamThomas landed in the Coats area while John Norman, later moved to the Buies Creek area, They all served in the War of 1812, earning bounty land. John Norman’s land now forms part of Campbell University.

One of the most notable members of the Gregory family, Neil Randal Gregory, was laid to rest in this historic cemetery in 1923. The group's efforts to restore the plot pay tribute to his legacy and the generations that followed.

When asked about the group's work, Max expressed his deep gratitude: "I think it's fantastic. It's a God gift to me." His heartfelt words highlight the impact such preservation efforts have on families and communities.

Harnett County Cemetery Preservation Group

Left to Right: Brady (Doc), Kevin, Keri, Tom, Neil, Max, David

The Harnett County Cemetery Preservation Group is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating the lives of those who have left their mark on Harnett County. By restoring, preserving, and documenting local cemeteries, they are ensuring that our shared history is honored and remembered for generations to come.

It's wonderful to hear about the Harnett County Cemetery Preservation Group's efforts to restore the Gregory Family plot. Their work is a valuable service to the community, preserving the memory of those who came before us.

Neil Randal Gregory's legacy, and the legacy of those buried alongside him, is now a bit more visible and honored thanks to the group's efforts. It's a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving our history.

Kevin and Doc excavating and repositioning markers

If you're interested in learning more about the Harnett County Cemetery Preservation Group or getting involved in similar efforts, I encourage you to reach out to them directly. Their website, http://harnettccp.com/, is a great resource for information about their mission and upcoming projects. You can donate to their GoFundMe or see their AmazonWish List or follow them on FaceBook.