East Side Cemetery formerly Freemon or Sunrise cemetery was established around the turn of the 20th century as a public burying ground for the local African American community of Shelby.  There are roughly 100 marked graves in the small cemetery although many more are most likely unmarked.  Among the most historically significant graves in the cemetery are the graves of veterans from four separate eras of conflict.  Bynum Hunter served with the N.C. 3rd Infantry throughout the Spanish American War.  Charles Parks served with the legendary Buffalo Soldiers from 1914-1919 and most likely fought back Mexican military forces in 1916 as part of the Mexican expedition.  Allen Cromer served with the 156 Depot Brigade throughout WWI.  Finally, both Guy R. Sanders and Henry Willie Lee served in WWII.

For GPS directions to Eastside Cemetery click on the icon below.