4/1/14

Unfortunately, last week I was not able to go into work on Wednesday due to fulfilling my part as an active member of society by attending jury duty. Friday as usual, was field day and led to interesting finds, but also caused to me reflect on the act of cemetery preservation as well.

A weathered handmade marker

Mr. Jacksons (left) & Commissioner Engele (Right)

      The group of us went out to the Oak Hill area, which is not far from Edgewater or New Smyrna Beach, and we visited four cemeteries. The first two were the Saints and Sinners Cemeteries, then Oak Hill Cemetery, and ending at the Clinton family cemetery. The Saints and Sinners Cemeteries are two different African American cemeteries that are located out in the middle of a forested area away from the regular hustle and bustle of the town. Since we were unsure of the location and also since there is a locked gate, we were escorted by two incredibly helpful men, City Commissioner Ron Engele and Abraham Jackson.  Ron Engele became fascinated by the idea of preserving the cemeteries a few years ago after its status was brought to his attention and he realized that due to the location on private property the city couldn’t intervene in preservation. Therefore, he and Abraham Jackson have gathered a group of men who have dedicated their free time to clearing out the overgrowth and preserving the remaining headstones while also keeping one as an active cemetery.

A fallen concrete cross that was most likely part of the headstone originally

            

       The cemeteries showcase a great example of how different materials for headstones or as markers react differently to weather and aging. For the most part in the Sinners Cemetery, all of the markers were constructed from concrete, which is an incredibly porous material and is affected by the elements very easily. Besides wood, this is a preservationist’s nightmare for the inscriptions could be completely weather-beaten or have eroded away entirely. I’m always saddened when I see eroded, broken, or just decrepit headstones/obelisks/markers. For that item once held a small peek into the history of whoever is interred there, it was a glimpse into their life and it has become lost to time now.  If only more people could become educated about the proper techniques in preserving different materials, even concrete, it could create a lasting impact in regards to the future of historic cemeteries.  If anyone is interested in the beginning of June, the CRPT Alliance is hosting a conference, which will include educating attendees proper techniques in regards to preserving historic headstones. If you are interested in learning more about this conference you can check it out here (x)! 

A headstone destroyed buy a bullet I found

            While I am on the topic of creating awareness in cemetery preservation there is a sensation in reality television that is encouraging vandalism more than promoting understanding of the past and those who are potentially buried there. I discovered this through an online petition to stop this sensationalized act. On three different channels, there are televisions shows that focus and inevitably glorify the pursuit of discovering artifacts and jewelry at battlefields, parks, and private property. These shows do get permission for their searches, but how many people are watching the shows and do their own hunting without receiving permission or thinking about their actions? What concerns me is the audience reaction and if this will begin a fad of treasure hunters. For when not properly done it can lead to the loss of historical and archeological context or the act of grave robbing could become a phenomenon again because there could be a priceless artifact there they just have to get. Noticeably, I am very passionate about this issue and I find this to be a prime example of why proper awareness of the importance of preserving cemeteries (and historic sites) is vital now more than ever. I’m getting off my soapbox now… Clearly, this internship has led me to think about how one’s actions can cause a ripple effect with preservation. The more educated people become about preserving cemeteries and other overlooked sites the greater a chance of it truly happening in a massive way and allowing for a more historically minded society as well.