By By Lydia Grimes – features reporter
Union Cemetery has been in existence for at least 128 years, and on Tuesday, the cemetery was dedicated and recognized as a historical site and part of the Alabama Historic Cemetery Registry.
Steve Yuhasz opened the ceremony and recognized the historical significance of Union Cemetery.
Mayor Ted Jennings recognized those who do the work to keep the cemetery looking the way it does.
Jennings also praised those who work with the Brewton Tree and Beautification Board for the work they have done. The care of the cemetery is part of the board's duties, and specifically board member Dr. Bob Hayes. Along with Joe Gordy, president of the board, and Danny Howard, superintendent of public works, Hayes and his workers keep the cemetery clean.
Hayes has been looking after the cemetery for several years and he was specific in joining the Tree and Beautification Board. He requested that he be given the duty of looking after the cemetery.
Lee Anne Wofford, cemetery program coordinator with the Alabama Historical Commission, and Ann Biggs-Williams of the Escambia County Historical Society, agreed the cemetery is a local treasure. &#8220This is a beautiful cemetery and we are proud to be a part of this ceremony,” Wofford said. &#8220There are only 107 cemeteries so recognized in Alabama, and Union Cemetery is only one of three in Escambia County. It is our job to find, preserve and protect the known, and the unknown, cemeteries in our state.”