The Historic Kemp Family Burial Ground is located on land originally patented by the Kemp family in the early 18th century. It is one of the largest historic family burial grounds in Maxatawny Township with the Kemp family being one of the founding families of the East Penn Valley. The burial ground is the final resting place for key figures in the early years of Maxatawny Township. Their life stories form much of the township’s history.
Theobault Kemp arrived in America around 1720 and is said to be the original pioneer settler of Maxatawny Township. During the Revolutionary War, his son, George Kemp, was appointed captain and was present at the Battle of Germantown. George inherited and ran Levan’s Tavern, which was a way station for several signers of the Declaration of Independence, including John Adams. Hannah, the only known slave in this section of Berks County, is also buried in the Historic Kemp Family Burial Ground, as specified in the will of Captain George Kemp.
WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING…
“The Kutztown Area Historical Society enthusiastically supports the preservation of the Historic Kemp Family Burial Ground, which is located on land originally patented by the Kemp family in the early 18th century”
-Kutztown Area Historical Society (Read in full)
“Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Board of Trustees of the Berks History Center strongly advocates for the preservation and restoration of the Kemp Family Burial Ground in Maxatawny Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania. It’s our sincere wish for Duke Realty, the Kemp family descendants, and the Kutztown Area Historical Society to find a way to preserve this important and unique link to our past.”
–Berks History Center (Read in full)
“Our Mission Statement states that BCAGP strives to preserve and maintain historic graveyards in Berks County. In accordance with that, the association strongly believes that the Kemp Family Burial Ground should remain intact at its present location, protected from vehicular traffic and with continued access by descendants and caregivers.”
–Berks County Association for Graveyard Preservation (Read in full)
“On behalf of the citizens I represent, I, therefore, respectfully urge you and your team to consider working with local citizens to preserve the Kemp family cemetery in its current location. This act of decency and respect will be welcomed and much appreciated by our community. Thank you for your consideration.”
-Letter sent to Duke Realty Chairman from Judith L. Schwank; PA Senator—11th District (Read in Full)