The Neighborhood at a Glance
Franklin Hill is one of the most clearly defined hills in Lynchburg, bounded by the Lynchburg Expressway to the west, Main Street to the north, Florida Avenue on the east, and Fishing Creek along the south.
It is believed the hill was named after Benjamin Franklin. This theory is supported by the large number of “tree” street names shared by both Franklin Hill and central Philadelphia: Cherry, Pine, Poplar, Vine, and Walnut. Chestnut and Plum Streets, which were located in the valley between Franklin and Diamond Hills were obliterated during the construction of the expressway in the 1960’s.
Grace Street is one of the main thoroughfares in the neighborhood and was once the Campbell Courthouse Turnpike (leading ultimately to Rustburg). Lots were sold in Franklin Hill starting in the 1820’s, but the topography and a lawsuit over some lots hindered development until the 20th century.
Presbyterian Cemetery
The most well known landmark in the neighborhood is Presbyterian Cemetery, founded in 1823 and home to many beautiful works of mortuary sculpture. Burials include folk artist Queena Stovall, Confederate Generals Garland and Rodes, “Lone Jack” tobacco baron John W. Carroll, businessman and philanthropist Charles M. Guggenheimer, and members of many early Lynchburg families.
Gravestone, Presbyterian Cemetery
Presbyterian Cemetery was founded in 1823 when elders of the Presbyterian church did not believe the public burial ground (now Old City Cemetery) was properly taken care of. From its original two acres, the cemetery now encompasses more than 20 acres.
Emma Serena “Queena” Stovall is buried in Presbyterian Cemetery. She did not begin her painting career until the age of 62 and lived in both Lynchburg and Amherst County. Known as the “Grandma Moses of Virginia,” her works depict everyday life in the rural south.