Round Rock History: The History of the Slave Grave Cemetery
Located in a corner of Round Rock Cemetery off Sam Bass Road lies a solemn and powerful reminder of lives often left out of history—the Round Rock Slave Burial Ground. This half-acre plot, believed to have been established in the 1850s, was set aside for the burial of enslaved people and freedmen of Williamson County. A Texas Historical Commission marker was placed in 1979 where graves dating as early as 1851 were placed, with the earliest marked freedman’s grave being interred in 1880; burials ceased by the early 1900s.
A simple wooden sign with cedar posts marked its boundaries, giving only a hint of the historical significance within.
Unlike other African American cemeteries in the area, this burial ground was specifically designated for enslaved individuals and freedmen, making it one of the few of its kind in Texas. Some of the 40-50 known graves are missing formal tombstones and are only identified with large, limestone rocks, some with hand-carved inscriptions. A simple wooden sign with cedar posts marked its boundaries, giving only a hint of the historical significance within. Oral histories and genealogical research have helped uncover the names of those buried within.
Efforts by the Round Rock Cemetery Association and local advocates have brought renewed attention and care to the site. A new sign and periodic ceremonies have helped reestablish its place in the community’s memory. Preservation efforts continue in hopes of educating the public about the site’s significance.
The Round Rock Slave Burial Ground is not just a cemetery—it is a place of reflection, remembrance, and truth. It serves as a physical reminder of the resilience and humanity of those who endured slavery and lived through the transition to freedom. Honoring this space is essential to preserving an honest account of Texas and Williamson County’s past. In doing so, we ensure that the contributions and stories of these individuals remain an enduring part of our shared history.
Authored by: Tina Steiner, Round Rock Preservation (RRP) Board of Directors
Copy and images provided by Round Rock Preservation
This Round the Rock series is brought to you by Round Rock Preservation, an IRS 501c3 Nonprofit Charity established for charitable & educational purposes. (EIN: 81-2339800).
The mission of Round Rock Preservation is to fulfill the need for a city-wide community advocacy program related to protecting, preserving, and supporting historic preservation within the City of Round Rock. Lectures and presentations are available.
For more info, contact Frank Darr, Vice President, at fdarr@austin.rr.com.
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