In [the] cemetery are 18 black soldiers who fought for the Union 1863-1866.” The formation of Unionville is widely credited to Ezekiel and his son James M. Cowgill, Quakers who owned nearby Lombardy Plantation.

Another of Ezekiel's sons, John Cowgill, who was also a Quaker, served as Captain in Company A, 108th Regiment U.S.

They stipulated in their leases that the plot of land was offered to free African-Americans provided that they would build a church and a school house in their community.

Thus the village today is known as “Unionville” in honor of the Union Army that the African-Americans credit with winning their freedom.

“Cowgillstown” also stands as a tribute to Ezekiel, John and James M. Cowgill, who championed the cause for justice, freedom, dignity, better living conditions and community for African-Americans during the Civil War and after Emancipation.