Documentary explores Union Bethel Cemetery and African American heroes who fought for freedom
In honor of Juneteenth, East Lynne Theater Company will host a screening of “Whispers from the Forgotten,” a 33-minute documentary that explores the history of Union Bethel Civil Cemetery, an important Cape May County African American cemetery, on June 22, at the Clemans Theater for the Arts at the Allen AME Church.
“Whispers from the Forgotten,” directed by South Jersey-based filmmakers Tim Millaway and Tom Coyle, premiered on Philadelphia’s Access Channel in January. The movie unveils the forgotten stories of African American heroes who fought for freedom and equality, while delving into the history of this sacred ground, shedding light on the lives of those who were marginalized and silenced. Additionally, the documentary was seen last month at the Hammonton Film Festival, and will be screened later this month at the New Jersey Shore Film Festival.
“East Lynne Theater Company’s recent move into the Clemans Theater for the Arts at the Allen AME Church has given us a responsibility to offer programming that remains true to the original reason this structure is here – as a place of worship for Cape May’s African American population,” said Mark David Boberick, East Lynne’s executive director. “The Clemans Theater is now a venue for world-class arts programming, yes. But we also feel deeply about continuing our strong connection with this treasured community.”
The screening will take place 3 p.m. Sunday, June 22. Millaway will be available for a Q&A session following the screening, potentially alongside some descendants of the African American Civil War Soldiers buried in the cemetery. The event is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted. No reservations are required. The Clemans Theater is located at 717 Franklin St., Cape May. For more information, go to EastLynneTheater.org.
About East Lynne Theater Company:
Founded in 1980, East Lynne Theater Company has been named by The New York Times as one of the Top 75 summer theaters in North America and recognized by the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly as “one of the state’s most important cultural treasures.” In 2023, understanding that the American Theater is itself a growing work of art, East Lynne expanded its mission to “present and preserve America’s theatrical heritage” by including plays about America today. As of 2025, East Lynne, which is currently housed in Cape May Presbyterian Church, continues to raise funds in its Capital Campaign to renovate its new home, the Clemans Theater for the Arts at Allen AME Church. As the company expands into the Clemans Theater, so does its calendar, which will offer year-round entertainment that includes plays and performances from worldwide writers, actors, musicians, and more. Go to EastLynneTheater.org.
About “Whispers from the Forgotten”:
Synopsis: Beneath the weathered headstones of Union Bethel Civil War Cemetery lies a rich tapestry of history, often overlooked and forgotten. This documentary takes viewers on a journey through time, exploring the lives of African American soldiers, families and community members who called this cemetery their final resting place. It uncovers the stories of Civil War veterans who fought for the Union, the challenges faced by African Americans in the 19th century and the enduring legacy of the Union Bethel community. Through firsthand accounts from descendants and historical research, the film paints a vivid picture of a time long past. This documentary will not only honor the memory of those buried at Union Bethel but also inspire future generations to appreciate and preserve our shared history. To see a trailer, go to YouTube.com.
About Director Tim Millaway:
Tim Millaway is a South Jersey-based filmmaker and animator who brings stories to life on screen. From directing the vibrant Hometown Award-Winning Show “GreenSquad,” a reality show about enticing meat eaters to try vegan food, to diving into the world of finance with Money Matters TV, Millaway has a knack for turning complex topics into engaging content. As a community field reporter for PhillyCAM Voices, he shares local stories with a fresh perspective.
