Cemeteries of Jennings State Forest

[NavyGuyAN]

I wasn't quite sure whether or not to post this in the "History" section or not. But while looking/exploring for places to go kayaking here in Jax, I was looking at the upper Black Creek around Jennings State Forest.  I was curious as to why there is 4 cemeteries (Padgett-Mosley, Bell, Manning and Nolan Ridge) in the middle of nowhere in Jenning's Forest? With one of then being only accessible by foot. I found some info. that there was at one time a lumber mill in the area years back (Sanlebrydo lumber company.) from this previous MJ post if I'm correct:
http://www.metrojacksonville.com/forum/index.php?topic=13042.0

[acme54321]

Probably just old family plots from long before the area was a state forest.

[RMHoward]

The same is true of Camp Blanding.  Located within its sprawling training area are 4 or 5 family cemetaries which are maintained by the National Guard.  There is also a small German POW cemetary out in the middle of no where which is fenced in and semi-maintained (even though the bodies were moved many years ago).

[paigevon]

Hello!  I know this is an old post, but I wanted to provide what little insight I have.

My maiden name is Bell, and the Bell family cemetery in Jennings State Forest is my family's.  I have gone there since I was quite young, before it was "renovated" with a shiny new fence, all the creepy mossy trees scattered within it cut down, and the covered pic-nic area was put it.  As a child, it was both fascinating and terrifying whenever we went there for funerals, family reunions (yes, strange I know) and sometimes "just because" to visit deceased family.

Family folklore as I have been told is that there use to be a small "Bell Town" back in this area, but my ancestors failed to pay taxes on it during hard times, and it was taken by the State, purchased by the Jennings Family, and then eventually taken back over as a State Forest.  The only land still owned by the Bell's out there is the cemetery itself, and a bit of the surrounding area.  My family has been in Middleburg, Florida before there were paved roads and traffic lights!

I actually found this post doing research on a project for a history class.  Unfortunately, I haven't yet dug up the information I seek.  I will keep looking so that I can find more facts about Jennings State Forest instead of just what I was told by my great grandfather.

Have a beautiful day!

[BridgeTroll]

Thanks Paige!