Have you ever driven down a country road and seen a cemetery shining so brightly in the sun that it seems otherworldly? Arabia Cemetery was like that for me. And it seems even brighter coupled with the surrounding silver metal fence, green grass and the bluest sky!
The church grounds (not pictured but called Bethany Primitive Baptist Church) and cemetery are down a dirt road off a dirt road, and the bugs are LOUD and bitey out this way. But gosh is it worth it! And I mean, that fence? Yessss.
In an area known for red clay and rivers/swamps the color of sweet tea, many may ask why white sand and where did it come from? The answers might vary but it’s most certainly a dying southern tradition except for dwindling locales such as these.
One answer to the white sand why is that it’s all about the look. Simple enough! It’s a striking image and any flowers left during Decoration Days or visits really stand out against the sand.
Another is that it keeps grass and weeds down, and can be raked and adjusted easily since it doesn’t readily wash away.
Personal note: I remember going to my Great-Grandmother’s house and she swept her front yard down to the dirt. While she didn’t have white sand, it was definitely a trend to keep your yard free of weeds and grass, and then have flowers in containers. Her choice? Old tires painted bright colors.
Another reason for sand? It was a sign of love and dedication. At time when transportation was much more limited, you had to haul this sand by carrying it yourself, with wagons or, later, with trucks and then spread it all by hand. It was a lot of work and showed the amount of care that the community had for those resting there.
I like to the answer is all three.
And it has two of the cutest and derpiest looking little lambs. I love them.
As of five years ago the church was still active at times. You can see more photos of it here.
232 Arabia Church Road
Homerville, Georgia 31634
