A new historical marker for the United Benevolent Aid Society was dedicated by the Georgia Historical Society at the Fayette County Cemetery on April 9^th.

This historical marker shares the history of the Union Benevolent Aid Society (UBAS) an African – American benevolent organization that was founded in Fayetteville in the 1880s. Enduring for over 100 years in Georgia the UBAS grew to impact communities across the state. The Union Benevolent Aid Society in Fayetteville was established in 1885 with leadership from Thomas Dorsey, Issac Dorsey, and Nelson Arnold.

On April 9, Angela Pendleton, President of the Fayette County Historical Society welcomed Briana James of the Georgia Historical Society, and Thomas Dorsey of the Fayette County Historical Society.

In her keynote address, Merrill S Penson, retired Executive Director, Library Services, University system of Georgia and FCHS member said, “The Union Benevolent Aid Society  provided communal engagement, leadership opportunities, hope, and  resilience from the Jim Crow era for over 100 years. This Historical Marker is a recognition of its part in the fabric of Georgia’s history and is important for today’s citizens and tomorrow’s generations”.

Other speakers at the occasion included the honorable Ed Johnson Mayor Fayetteville; Gayle Jenkins President, Friends of the Historic Fayetteville Cemetery, and John Lynch, Fayette County Historian, alongside Thomas Dorsey, board member, Fayette County Historical Society who is a descendent of founder Thomas Dorsey of UBAS.

The unveiling of the marker was done by Briana James, Historical Marker and Program Associate, Georgia Historical Society and Thomas Dorsey, Board Member, Fayette County Historical Society.

Black men throughout the South established the UBSA to develop cemeteries, to provide burial services, and provide help for sick members. Similar UBAS lodges were established throughout the South to provide these needed services to the Black communities.