about us
Preserving Stories. Honoring Legacy
Serving our community with dignity for over 80 years
Nestled along the historic Route 66 in Luther, Oklahoma, the Tillman Cemetery holds a profound place in American history. Believed to be the only slave cemetery in the state of Oklahoma—and possibly the only one along the entire stretch of Route 66 across eight states—Tillman Cemetery stands as a solemn and enduring tribute to generations of African Americans whose stories are etched into its sacred grounds.
Established on land donated in 1941 by Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Wilson, the five-acre cemetery has been sustained almost entirely through the tireless efforts of the local community. For over four generations, members of The Church of the Living God in Luther, along with committed volunteers, have taken on the responsibility of preserving and maintaining this historic site.
Despite limited resources and facing numerous challenges—including acts of vandalism and the wear of time—volunteers continue to mow the grass, pull weeds, restore toppled headstones, and place flowers on graves that might otherwise be forgotten. Fundraisers are occasionally held to support essential maintenance projects, such as installing fencing and improving the grounds.
The resilience of Tillman Cemetery is a testament not only to the strength of the community that cares for it, but also to the legacy of those who are buried there. Through tornadoes, ice storms, and other natural disasters, the cemetery has stood its ground—quietly preserving the memory of lives once overlooked by history.
Tillman Cemetery is more than just a burial site; it is a place of remembrance, reflection, and reverence. We invite you to learn about its history, honor those who rest here, and join us in our mission to preserve this vital piece of Oklahoma’s cultural heritage.
Our Mission
Our mission is to preserve and honor the legacy of those laid to rest at Tillman-Watson Cemetery while continuing the founding vision of David Tillman and the Watson family. Since 1890, we have maintained these sacred grounds with dignity and reverence, ensuring that every family—regardless of their circumstances—has access to a peaceful final resting place.
As the only known slave cemetery along the historic Route 66, we hold a unique and profound responsibility to preserve this irreplaceable piece of American history. Our cemetery stands as a testament to the African American experience in Oklahoma’s territorial period and serves as a vital link to understanding the diverse communities that shaped our nation’s development.
We are committed to safeguarding this historic cemetery as a place of remembrance, reflection, and respect for future generations. Through the dedicated work of our volunteers who serve “as a gift of love,” and the ongoing support of our community, we preserve not only the physical grounds but the stories, heritage, and experiences of all those who found their final rest here—from pioneers and settlers to those who endured enslavement and sought freedom in Oklahoma Territory.
As stewards of over 130 years of history, we educate the public about our cemetery’s significant role in Oklahoma’s territorial and statehood periods, while fostering a spirit of community service that honors both our founding families and the hundreds of families who have chosen to make Tillman-Watson Cemetery their eternal home.
Donations and volunteers are always welcome and greatly appreciated, as they help us continue this sacred mission of service, remembrance, and community stewardship.