| The 8.8 acre Brandon Cemetery is historically significant as the oldest surviving resource illustrating the historic development of the community. The cemetery was platted in 1831 at the same time as the town of Brandon. It became the final resting place of the men and women who established Brandon and contributed to its growth. They were pioneers, veterans, traders, merchants, politicians, educators, clergy, and slaves and free people of color. The Brandon Cemetery, with over 1000 marked graves, is also significant for its display of funerary art illustrating changing styles over time. The majority of markers are headstones with flat or rounded tops. There are also ground tablets, pedestal obelisks, and bedsteads. Some markers include symbols from fraternal organizations, such as Woodmen of the World and the Masons. Some markers are enhanced with sculpture, crosses, and relief and incised decorations. This cemetery was designated a Mississippi Landmark on 8 February 2007. It was listed on the National Register on 18 November 2010. Nancy Bell, Director of the Vicksburg Foundation for Historic Preservation, wrote the nomination. |