Restoration and preservation of cemeteries and graveyards

Blog

Cemeteries and graveyards — the ultimate resting place of loved ones, where they come to find closure or to simply say a prayer for them. However these resting places are under huge pressure from a range of sources. Developmental pressures from big companies wanting to build over them, abandonment, and off course decay from nature's own processes as well as damage from vandals, are all threats. These historical places are vastly different from other historical and archaeological places as they hold specific sacred, artistic and genealogical purposes. They contain human remains alongside historic sculptures and monuments set in an outdoor landscape. These are the very reasons why preservation of cemeteries and graveyards is especially difficult. 

Preservation and restoration is a tedious process that cannot be rushed. Advocates of cemetery preservation want the work done fast. However, rushing this process can actually cause further damage. The preservation process is multifaceted, with a wide range of services employed. These include landscape architecture, historic research of any monuments and artifacts, and even the services of structural engineers. 

So what are the steps that should be taken for proper cemetery and graveyard restoration? The following identifies some of these steps:

• Treatment of stone monuments, sculptures and other structures ensures that the integrity of these structures remains intact
• Creating a overall plan of action: A master plan will incorporate all factors that are part of a cemetery, such as the landscape and other features. In addition to this a master plan will also take into consideration the future needs of the cemetery, such as ongoing maintenance.
• Identification of graves: Cemeteries may have many unmarked graves that need to be identified. This is done using mapping technology.
• Historical research: Properly researching historical items such as maps and photographs is essential as it provides background information. Cemeteries and graveyards are a a vital source of human history. As such, historical research is an integral part of any meaningful cemetery restoration efforts. 

It is human responsibility to preserve historic cemeteries for future generations to not only appreciate, but to also learn from. As society's awareness increases, a larger number of organisations are popping up specialising in cemetery preservation and restoration. These organisations can do small jobs, such as restoring the headstone of a loved one that has become worn away over time. In addition to this, larger cemetery restorations and ongoing maintenance operations are also carried out by such organisations. 

Share

10 December 2018