Importance of Cemetery Restoration

Cemeteries represent a unique marker of human history. Those individuals buried in cemeteries are critical sources of history, helping to fill gaps in knowledge with regards to humans cultural and social roots. As such, when cemeteries are found decaying and crumbling, it is as if a vital piece of heritage has been lost and forgotten. Additionally, abandoned cemeteries in this condition are dangerous for the surrounding community. The purpose of cemetery restoration is to repair and restore all components of the cemetery, bringing them back to their former appearance. This process involves several steps including treating stone to remove decay. Cemetery restoration also makes the cemetery a safe place to visit again. This means members of the community can safely visit the cemetery and gain an insight into their community's history. 

Key steps in cemetery restoration

Before starting any cemetery restoration project, a detailed plan is created to ensure that efforts are carried out in the correct manner. There are certain laws protecting cemeteries from disturbance, hence it is important to operate within these laws to avoid any legal issues. Additionally, all efforts and steps taken to restore the cemetery must be acceptable methods and must be reversible. All historical artifacts must be treated with the utmost respect and care. 

Here are some critical steps in this restorative process:

  1. Map of the cemetery is located - This is crucial to planning the restorative efforts and shows all structures within the cemetery. Hence, if any unmarked structures are found, they can be investigated without disturbing important pieces of history. The map of the cemetery also shows the exact size of the cemetery, allowing a plan of action to be created that is suited to the size. 
  2. All grave markers and monuments are photographed - This is important for documentation purposes. This also ensures that each marker and monument is restored.
  3. Types and condition of stone are determined - Each type of stone (e.g. granite, slate, sandstone) must be treated differently in the cleaning and conservation process. Using a cleaning substance that is not suitable for the type of stone can cause damage.
  4. Buried grave markers identified using tile probes
  5. Budget of the cemetery restoration project is created

Cemetery restoration experts make sure they are using the right equipment in the cleaning process. Soft brushes with natural bristles are used to ensure that the cleaning process is carried out in a gentle manner. Stones are often weak from years of decay hence must be treated with care. 

Reach out to a cemetery restoration company to learn more.


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