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We are often asked how we can go about getting a cemetery restored/preserved? A simple answer is one grave marker at a time. So, this is one approach to accomplish that worthwhile goal with the "Adopt a (you fill in the blank) Project. It could be for a veteran or anyone's grave marker.
"The Project" could be to restore and/or replace one marker, or monument, or several.
It could also be for a stone wall ,or a wrought iron fence, or railing. It could be for stone steps. It could be for a chapel. It could be for a mausoleum. It could be for a receiving vault.
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The possibilities for preservation are almost endless.
Your Project can start small and "go big" later!
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A cemetery by definition is a living breathing landscape with sacred grounds having special needs that go beyond those of garden or park landscapes. The needs include how important it is to retain respectfulness for those who came before us and their final resting places.
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Initially, this type of a project might require a "Friends of (you fill in the blank) Cemetery" or even a Cemetery Preservation Society that operates as a non-profit.
Seeking and enlisting participation from like-minded people to help coordinate each step along the way and divide up the duties among the members lightens the load on individuals.
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This type of a program can help to preserve original gravestones and literally rescue them from toppling over and breaking or sinking out of sight.
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We have noted that most of the time it is much more economical and practical to preserve and protect an original grave marker than replacing it with a new one. That includes seeking out professionals, or well trained volunteers with proper equipment who will conduct the work in a "Do No Harm" manner.
Most likely, a new granite marker will lack the true essence of the time period during which the deceased person lived. A replacement most likely won't be as ornately carved as the original that had stood at the gravesite for decades.
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Preserving an original grave marker also preserves the artistic creation of the carver chosen by the family of the deceased who knew and cared about their loved one. The descendants could have carried out the wishes of the dearly departed for what they would want for a permanent marker to stand at their gravesite.
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Granted, not all grave markers can be saved, but assessing those that can be saved is a good first step before moving forward in the preservation process.
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Turning local apathy into local pride that stems from local participation for the cause of preservation can, and often does, take time.
Patience is paramount during the process, but the final results can be so rewarding!
So, think about this approach and consider adopting a "Adopt a (you fill in the blank) Project" for the benefit of your cemetery of concern.
