View the full article by WITF HERE: https://www.witf.org/2025/07/16/steeltons-steel-mill-goes-idle-but-its-story-isnt-over/

“Earlier this month I had a conversation with the Chair of a statewide initiative that has been formed to preserve

Pennsylvania’s African American cemeteries. The mission of the Pennsylvania Hallowed Grounds is to honor,

interpret, and preserve African American cemeteries and the burial sites of Civil War African American Sailors

and United States Colored Troops in America. They work collaboratively with other groups and organizations to

conserve, document, and educate on the cemeteries they support”

A few weeks ago, I received a message from Suzanne, a woman from North Carolina searching for her father’s obituary. Her father, Dr. George Albert Jones, was a physician who once had an office in downtown Steelton. Suzanne had been searching for the obituary for years and finally reached out to me, knowing my work with the historic Midland Cemetery.

As I dug into Dr. Jones’ past, I uncovered a remarkable life story. Born in New York in 1904, Dr. Jones grew up in Harrisburg, where his father owned a restaurant. He attended Harrisburg Technical High School, playing the cornet in the orchestra and band. However, he abandoned his musical aspirations to pursue a career in medicine.

Dr. Jones’ educational journey took him to Lincoln University and later to Howard University Medical School, where he graduated in 1935. He interned at Freedman’s Hospital, a historic hospital established during the Civil War to serve African Americans.

Dr. Jones’ impact on the community was profound. He joined a group of African-American doctors to combat tuberculosis, tested children and workers for the disease, and spoke publicly about health issues. He advocated for social justice in schools, pushing for integration and equal opportunities.

One of Dr. Jones’ most notable achievements was raising money for the United Hospital Building Fund in memory of George Washington Carver. He exceeded the campaign’s $10,000 goal with the help of local churches and organizations.

Dr. Jones passed away in 1992, leaving behind a legacy of equality, justice, and compassion. His daughter Suzanne told me that he wrote his own obituary, highlighting his achievements, including being the first African-American doctor appointed to the medical staff of Polyclinic Hospital.

Through his remarkable life and work, Dr. George Albert Jones paved the way for future generations, inspiring us to continue fighting for equal rights and social justice.

We are honored to be one of the inaugural recipients of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests foundation's Chairs award! The President’s Award is designed to recognize outstanding citizens or businesses who have made an impact in protecting open space, conservation, outdoor recreation, or volunteerism. We would like to thank all of our volunteers and supporters who make this all possible. 

Original Feature on Pg. 8: Pennsylvania Parks and Forests