5. A Proper Burial
While the original church no longer stood where Martha was buried, the congregation still existed. Researchers contacted the Saint Mark African Methodist Episcopal Church, whose members were incredibly excited about the discovery. To them, Martha Peterson was not merely a fascinating mystery woman but a connection to an essential part of their congregation’s past. She stood for the lives of many of the forgotten black Americans in history. The church gave Martha a new burial, attended by the congregation. She was buried with honor and respect.
