History on Elm: Restoring Greenwood Cemetery

Join us for the screening of a short documentary on the restoration of Greenwood Cemetery in North St. Louis, led by Shelley and Raphael Morris of the Greenwood Cemetery Preservation Association. The film explores the powerful and often overlooked Black history in St. Louis and the ongoing efforts to restore and preserve it. Directed by Columbia, Mo.-based filmmaker Jim Karpowicz, the story delves into the rich cultural and historical significance of the cemetery, shedding light on the stories of individuals laid to rest and the community that surrounds it. Shelley and Raphael Morris will be at the screening to answer audience questions after the 17-minute film is shown. The couple was recognized by Mission St Louis in 2019 as Neighbors of the Year for their commitment to restoration work. In January 2024, the Greenwood Cemetery Preservation Association received the Rosa L. Parks Award for meritorious service to the community. Greenwood Cemetery was placed on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom in 2023 and on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.