Cathi, I am VERY interested in cemetery preservation. I cannot get to
Conn. but would really like to be included on everything you can email me.
If there are handouts or brochures, I will send you whatever they cost
and postage.
One "above ground vault" in our village cemetery is in particularly bad
shape. I posted an inquiry on
findagrave.com and learned more about them.
The village has patched this vault many times and it is in eminant danger
of total failure. Like most cemeteries, this one barely has enough funds
to keep it mowed.
Those on
findagrave.com suggested forming a group as "Friends of Rosemont"
and ask for donations and memorials to be given for maintenence. I had
considered this and may do it for several others in the area.
I have an ancestor who is buried near a creek on a knoll in a town that
doesn't exist anymore. It was cleared by a teacher and his highschool
class many years ago. It had cows grazing on it at one time and the fence
was long gone. It was nearly lost with only a few stones evident.
I'm not sure of the details to put in a work request, but we have a small
state prison (for non-violent offenders) about 20 miles away. Someone
requested they come to the Noel Cemetery in Birmingham (Schuyler Co.)
Illinois. They now have cleared several cemeteries and what a difference.
I believe it was 13 stones (Some of the earliest settlers early 1830's)
were found and they cut brush, weeds, and whatever else. It can now be
mowed, carefully using a "weedeater" and flowers are once again being
placed.
The prisoners say they enjoy helping out, having something to do, and they
enjoy a day outside. I hope your state has a similar program that can
assist you.
Connie
West-central Illinois
Longtime cemetery trekker :)
I hop
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