Pine Forest Education and Learning Center (PFELC) is excited to announce two new Requests for Proposals (RFPs) aimed at uncovering and preserving the powerful legacies held within Pine Forest Cemetery. We are currently seeking a historian and a genealogist to lead parallel research efforts that will shine a light on the individuals, families, and stories that define this sacred and historic site.

Pine Forest Cemetery: A Story Worth Telling

Pine Forest Cemetery holds deep significance not only in the local community but also in the broader narratives of African American history and resilience in the South. Among those interred are leaders, educators, veterans, and everyday citizens whose lives were shaped by—and helped shape—the turbulent history of Wilmington, North Carolina, including the events surrounding the 1898 Wilmington Massacre.

Historian RFP: A Deep Dive into Historical Context:
We are seeking a qualified historian to conduct a comprehensive study of Pine Forest Cemetery’s founding, development, and historical importance. This research will explore the cemetery’s role in the aftermath of the 1898 massacre, its ties to broader civil rights movements, and its place in regional and national history. The selected historian will produce a detailed report, assist with public education initiatives, and present their findings to PFELC stakeholders and the community.

Genealogist RFP: Tracing Family Legacies:
In parallel, we are seeking a professional genealogist to research and document the family histories of those buried at Pine Forest Cemetery. The genealogist will trace lineages, create family trees, and help connect with living descendants. This work will support future oral history projects and provide a rich resource for educational programs, storytelling, and cultural preservation.

Why This Matters
PFELC is committed to elevating stories of resilience, resistance, and community. By investing in these research projects, we aim to create educational tools, interpretive signage, and community programming that reflect the true depth and dignity of Pine Forest Cemetery’s legacy.

If you are a historian or genealogist passionate about African American history, community research, and historical preservation, we invite you to review our RFPs and submit a proposal.

For full details, including project scope, deliverables, qualifications, and how to apply, please view each RFP:

Historian RFP         Genealogist RFP

Proposal deadlines and contact information can be found within each RFP. We look forward to partnering with skilled researchers who can help us honor the past and inspire future generations.

About PFELC:
Pine Forest Education and Learning Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to education, cultural preservation, and community engagement through historical research and storytelling. Our mission is to illuminate the heritage and legacies that shape our community and to foster a deeper understanding of our collective past.