🥣 Strong Community Turnout Supports Mt. Olive Cemetery Preservation Effort
Despite a winter weather delay, the Mars Hill community showed up in full force on March 24 for the Fourth Annual Soup Supper benefiting Historic Mt. Olive Cemetery. The rescheduled event drew a standing-room-only crowd and resulted in a record-setting year for the fundraiser.
More than $3,500 was raised to support ongoing preservation and beautification efforts, bringing the four-year total to nearly $14,000.
This annual gathering continues to grow as a reflection of shared commitment across the community to honor and preserve the history of the Mt. Olive/Long Ridge community.
Rooted in Partnership
The Soup Supper is part of a broader, ongoing effort led by Madison ROOTS, working in partnership with local organizations, churches, and volunteers. Together, these groups are helping ensure that the stories, contributions, and legacy of this historic community are not lost.
Mars Hill United Methodist Church is grateful to support and participate in this collaborative work alongside dedicated partners across Madison County.
About Historic Mt. Olive Cemetery
Established in 1936, Mount Olive Cemetery sits adjacent to the Historic Anderson-Rosenwald School on land originally purchased from the County School Board. It is the resting place of generations of community members, including families connected to Joseph Anderson, a founder of Mars Hill University, and Viola King Barnette, whose advocacy helped expand access to public secondary education across North Carolina.
Today, preservation efforts are focused not only on maintaining the physical space, but also on protecting the history and significance it represents for future generations.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
The strong turnout this year underscores growing community momentum behind this work. Continued support will help ensure that Historic Mt. Olive Cemetery remains a place of remembrance, learning and connection for years to come.
Thank you to everyone who contributed whether by attending, volunteering, preparing food, or offering financial support. Your involvement made this year’s event the most successful yet.
A very special thank you to the volunteers and supporters for their generous donations, contributions and support of the Mt. Olive Cemetery:
Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church
Mars Hill Baptist Church
Episcopal Chruch of hte Holy Spirit
Twisted Laurel of Weaverville
Chartwells Dining Services at Mars Hill University
Members of Madison ROOTS
Wagon Wheel
Eat More Bakery
CA’s Diner
Little Creek Cafe
Mars Hill United Methodist Church
