4/9/14

I want to apologize for how late the publication of this blog post is, this past weekend I had personal things, including being sick, interfere with posting. In addition, I am sad to say that past Friday (1/4/14) was the last field day for this internship. I cannot believe how quickly the time has past and that this Saturday is the Lemonade Lecture already! April has just flown on by and I am not sure I am ready to be finished with this internship, but all’s well that ends well!

           

            On Wednesday I knocked out a majority of the Union Cemetery Inscription, allowing for only the recently accounted for burials needing to be inputted into the word document. It is a massive cemetery and seeing the 25 pages of names that need to be compiled into the master inscription document appears to be a somewhat daunting task, but I look forward to the feeling of relief I will encounter once I have tackled it.

One of several broken in crypts

      Timing was apropos for I worked on Union/Orange Baker Cemetery Inscription on Wednesday and then one of the first cemeteries we visited on Friday was Union/ Orange baker. My boss has told me how disarray and saddening it is, but nothing can truly prepare you for the sadness that clings to the air. Since this is an African American Cemetery, it is sad to see the state of the cemetery from vandalism to mournful homemade headstones. I’ve seen previous acts of vandalism with obelisks pushed over and headstones broken, but it pales in comparison to Union where actual vaults were broken into and the way to rectify it is by placing plywood on top. However, it is quite evident that the plywood is quite old and is being used as a more permanent fix then it should be. It is maddening to see the state this cemetery is in, when there are so many people buried here. However, there is something sadder then the acts of vandalism-it is the handmade burial markers which include cinder blocks and wood outlining. It is obvious the loved ones of whoever is buried there could only afford those items instead of the ornate granite or marble headstones, it’s so sad that money becomes such a force even in times of despair. I admire that there are people who decided to build something, instead of leaving just a funereal home marker, which will erode away or become lost quite quickly. It just made my heart so heavy to see that Cemetery, and even now it is the saddest and most desolate of cemeteries that I have encountered my entire internship. Union Cemetery is interesting just with the size of it, but the sorrow that permeates throughout cannot be missed nor ignored. 

           

            We also visited Beresford Cemetery, which was in the middle of this clearing just along the side of the road. It was very picturesque and it had a fascinating headstone that was a gigantic black rock. I found it to be so raw and unusual that I think it might be one of my favorite headstones that I have seen. After seeing Union Cemetery and then visiting this one, there was an obvious difference in regards to the upkeep of the cemetery. Which I find horrible, I wish that all cemeteries were all well taken care for and pleasing to visit like Oakdale or Beresford Cemetery. However, life does not work like that and that is why creating awareness in preservation is key: so cemeteries like Union can receive the care and treatment it truly deserves.

            I’ll wrap up this blog for now seeing as I need to start preparing for the Lemonade Lecture on Saturday and wrap up the few loose ends that are still left for me. I know in the last few posts I keep mentioning how I am amazed about how quickly time has gone by, but I feel cannot truly express how shocked I am by it. I have learned a lot from this internship and I am excited to see what all I take with me in regards to graduate school and future jobs.

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.

3/17/14

Happy Saint Patricks ay Everyone!! This was the first week back from Spring Break and the time change, so Wednesday was a very arduous day. I did make headway with Osteen Cemetery transcriptions then which allowed for me to understand more people of import when visiting the cemetery on Friday.

             On Friday, we visited several cemeteries all which had their own unique feel and appearance that allowed for it to stand out more so. The first stop was the Lake Helen & Cassadaga Cemetery, which I have mentioned just a few times on this blog. I was very excited to visit for two different reasons. The first is that though I am still learning about the history of Florida, the Lake Helen & Cassadaga history really fascinated me. Secondly, I have always heard of the infamous “devil’s chair” in Cassadaga which is nothing more then vandalized mourning chairs. Just looking at the chairs one can assume that the chairs were put in place for remaining family could sit and remember or in a sense spend time with their dearly departed loved ones. When I arrived, I was expecting one ominous appearing chair, instead there were three intriguing and simplistic chairs. The entire cemetery had a feel of what could be considered beautifully angst-ridden cemetery that becomes more intriguing the longer you’re there.

            The next cemetery we ventured to was Osteen Cemetery, which is another I was excited to visit.

It’s amazing how one can imagine a cemetery to look like and it can be drastically different. I imagined a small, compact cemetery similar to Mount Zion Cemetery. Instead, it was a large, sprawling cemetery that was very calming. Adding to the serene atmosphere that can only be felt at a cemetery, were wind chimes hanging in the looming pine trees.

From Pi(e) Day!

It also had one of the most larger historic burials than I’ve noticed in the smaller cemeteries, it may not have been more but it was the most orderly and one of the best preserved plots I have encountered. Also on Friday it was National Pi Day and so my coworker and I stopped at Osteen Diner and had a celebratory slice!

            

Enterprise Cemetery

The last two cemeteries were Enterprise and Hollywood. With Enterprise, there is a fairly empty expanse that I believe would have unmarked graves. It was pretty, but did not stand out to me. Hollywood Cemetery was beautiful and similar to Oakdale, but not nearly as expansive.

"Don't blink"

There was a beautiful combination of older and newer headstones/obelisks that were all maintained very well, but there were some beautiful newer headstones that were just exquisite. The weeping angel monument was expertly carved and I was actually surprised to see that here. I’ve read about those monuments to be popular in France, but not in the States.

            I know that next Friday we will be visiting Emporia and my boss will be along for we will try to find a few graves that are somewhat unsure of the whereabouts. I am looking forward to that and additional adventures and discovery that I may experience. 

Before I wrap up this post I do want to mention the River of Lakes Heritage Corridor Scenic Highway, they work to promote learning and active involvement within the community, including creating awareness for historic cemeteries.  I was recently featured on their Facebook page (which can be accessed here x) and they are in the middle of revamping their website to include more detailed information about cemeteries Volusia County is working to document and preserve.  They have a fascinating website and I would recommend anyone interested in digging deeper into the history and even activities available in areas like DeLand and Sanford to check it out! (x)

2/23/14

The highlight of this week was the fieldwork on Friday, for it was my coworker and I racing to complete cemetery assessments before we were inevitably rained out.  It was an array of cemeteries from small familial cemeteries to massive often used cemeteries; it was interesting to see how even the upkeep and decorations differed from each location.

            The first cemetery we visited was Purdom Cemetery, which was off of the highway and tucked away on a winding road. It is a massive cemetery that has very obvious mixes of older tombs and recent. The decoration, flowers, and additional trinkets left on the newer tombs made it appear to be well taken care of and visited often. It was nice to see that care was taken to making sure the tombs looked presentable and not withering away. One can easily tell that this is a place for some to come and commemorate and in a sense be with their past love ones.

            Afterwards we ventured to Clifton Cemetery, which was one of the prettiest locations I have seen besides Harris Cemetery. The drive to the cemetery involved driving under a beautiful canopy until one reaches the small and quaint cemetery  There was a carving on one of the headstones I enjoyed for the simplistic nature and another had near the headstone a circular stone with I am assuming their collegiate affiliation. Two very drastic carvings, but I believe they both embodied the persons entombed quite nicely.

The majority of those buried there are related to the Clifton family, so it was interesting to see a true familial cemetery and the differences. I found there was not as many trinkets or decorations as I have seen either at Purdom or even Bethel Cemetery.

A small look at the massive cemetery

           

The final major cemetery we visited was Oakdale Cemetery in Deland, which I discovered has on site maintenance that I appreciate for not only do the grounds look spotless, but it aids in reducing the amount of vandalism as well. I discovered they have their own website which entails events, such as reenactments that are done twice a year, photographs of unique burials, and cost to be buried there as well. (You can check it out here x) The last item I have never really put much thought to and was surprised by the cost and am very curious to research more about cost of burial practices with other prominent cemeteries in the area. By the time we arrived to this cemetery a storm was fast approaching so we had to quickly do the assessment for the massive cemetery, while additionally taking pictures for not only documentation but to have for future projects. I could wander that cemetery for hours and still find fascinating headstones and obelisks! The mausoleum was incredibly striking, but I found my self more entranced by the obelisks and unique memorials such as a bench for example.

 Not only are their tombs, but also there is a memorial for Confederate Soldiers that are buried in Oakdale Cemetery. Very simple and does not truly draw attention to itself but it is there nonetheless as a silent tribute. I hope to go back to this cemetery so I can spend more time looking and less time worrying about being rained out.

Next week is my last week before Spring Break and I cannot fathom how fast this semester has been going by! However, as they say “time flies when you’re having fun” and that is most certainly the truth. I have seen in such a short period a fascinating array of tombs and I’m working on strengthening my technical writing skill, but that has been an unexpected challenge. I am excited to see what else is in store for me this semester.