The New State of Jones rests upon the notion that there exists an “old” State of Jones. However, you do not have to lose one to embrace the other. A restless, some may say rebellious, spirit stirs from the first generations who settled in Jones County near Ellisville and seceded from the Confederacy to create the Free State of Jones.
Knight Family Cemetery
The Knight Family Cemetery, located deep within the Piney Woods just outside of Jones County, is the final resting place of Newt Knight, his beloved common-law wife, Rachel and other members of the Knight Family.
The secrets, legends and memories it holds have long been a mystery to most who call Jones County home. Now, you have the opportunity to tour this place that has been kept from view for over 100 years.
On February 16, 1922, Newt Knight died of old age at the age of 92. In defiance of a state law which prohibited blacks and whites to be buried in the same cemetery, Newt was buried in a pine box beside Rachel on a high ridge overlooking his homestead.
Visit The Knight Family Cemetery online at newtknightsfreestate.com/