Zion Hill signage dedicated

About three dozen people braved bone-chilling cold to attend the dedication ceremony of new interpretive signage at Zion Hill Cemetery Wednesday afternoon. The signage depicts Columbia's role in the Underground Railroad, as well as the history of the cemetery where many black Civil War soldiers - most of whom fought with the 54th Massachusetts Regiment - are buried. During the construction of the Route 30 bypass in the late 1960s, many grave markers were dug up and tossed aside.  In 1997, funds were raised, and dedicated community volunteers gathered and reset some of the stones, and added markers to probable grave locations.

The addition of the signage is another step in the restoration of the cemetery and the recognition of those interred there.

 Columbia's Robert Brinson read from a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Consulting Historian Randolph Harris and Rivertownes PA USA President Albert Storm unveiled the new signage.

 One side describes Columbia's role in the Underground Railroad.

The reverse side explains the history of the cemetery where generations of African-Americans are buried.

Randolph Harris described the journey leading to the sign's completion.

 Claire Storm thanked everyone who helped bring the project to fruition.

Derek Parker, a descendant of the Loney family, traveled from Washington, DC to attend. (Two Robert Loneys grew up in Columbia. One ferried escaped slaves across the Susquehanna on their way to freedom on the Underground Railroad. The other was a Union soldier during the Civil War.)

Columbia's Jim Jones showed the landscaping he provided for the site.

Albert Storm concluded the ceremony by recognizing those who contributed to the project.