Understanding Cemetery Research: A Global Guide

Cemetery research is a valuable tool for genealogists, historians, and anyone interested in learning more about their ancestors or the history of a particular community. Gravestones, tombstones, and memorial inscriptions provide a wealth of information that can supplement other genealogical records. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of cemetery research techniques, resources, and ethical considerations for researchers worldwide.

Why Conduct Cemetery Research?

Cemeteries are more than just final resting places; they are outdoor museums that offer insights into the lives and times of those who are buried within them. Cemetery research can provide:

• Dates of Birth and Death: Gravestones often include birth and death dates, which can be crucial for identifying ancestors and verifying information found in other records.
• Family Relationships: Tombstones frequently include the names of spouses, parents, and children, helping to establish family connections. Group burials or shared headstones can indicate close family ties.
• Historical Context: Cemetery inscriptions can provide information about a person's occupation, military service, religious affiliation, and other significant details about their life. Epitaphs can offer insights into the values and beliefs of the time.
• Social and Cultural Information: Cemetery layout, tombstone styles, and burial customs can reflect the social and cultural norms of a community. For example, the presence of specific symbols or the use of particular languages can indicate ethnic or religious heritage.
• Locating Missing Records: In some cases, cemetery records may be the only surviving evidence of a person's existence, especially if vital records were lost or destroyed.

Preparing for Cemetery Research

Effective cemetery research requires careful planning and preparation. Here's what you need to do before you head to the graveyard:

1. Gather Information

Before visiting a cemetery, gather as much information as possible about the individuals you are researching. This includes:

• Full Names: Knowing the full names of your ancestors is essential for identifying them in cemetery records.
• Approximate Dates of Birth and Death: Having an approximate date range will help you narrow your search.
• Locations: Determine the specific cemeteries where your ancestors may be buried. Check death certificates, obituaries, and family records for clues.
• Family Relationships: Understanding family connections will help you identify related individuals buried nearby.

2. Research Cemetery Records

Many cemeteries maintain records of burials, including plot maps, interment registers, and sexton's records. These records can provide valuable information about burial locations, dates of death, and other details. Contact the cemetery office or archives to inquire about the availability of records.

Increasingly, cemetery records are being digitized and made available online. Search online databases such as:

• Find a Grave: A user-generated database of cemetery records from around the world.
• BillionGraves: Another user-generated database that includes photographs and transcriptions of gravestones.
• FamilySearch: A free genealogy website that includes a growing collection of cemetery records.
• Ancestry.com: A subscription-based genealogy website that offers access to a wide range of cemetery records.
• Local Historical Societies and Genealogical Societies: These organizations often maintain indexes and transcriptions of local cemetery records.

3. Prepare Your Equipment

Bring the following equipment to the cemetery:

• Camera: To photograph gravestones and the surrounding area.
• Notebook and Pen: To record information and observations.
• Graph Paper: To sketch the cemetery layout and plot locations.
• Cemetery Map (if available): To navigate the cemetery and locate specific plots.
• Cleaning Supplies: A soft brush, water, and mild detergent to clean gravestones (see below for precautions).
• Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that is appropriate for the weather. Consider long pants and sleeves to protect against insects and vegetation.
• Sunscreen and Hat: To protect yourself from the sun.
• Insect Repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
• Hand Sanitizer: To clean your hands after handling gravestones and cemetery vegetation.

Conducting On-Site Cemetery Research

Once you arrive at the cemetery, follow these steps to conduct your research:

1. Locate the Cemetery Office

If the cemetery has an office, check in and ask for assistance. The staff may be able to provide maps, records, and information about the cemetery's history and regulations.

2. Obtain a Cemetery Map

A cemetery map is essential for navigating the cemetery and locating specific plots. If a map is not available, sketch your own, noting landmarks and section markers.

3. Systematically Search the Cemetery

Walk through the cemetery systematically, row by row, to ensure that you don't miss any gravestones. Pay attention to the layout of the cemetery and the location of family plots. Look for clues such as shared surnames, similar dates of death, and symbolic markings.

4. Examine Gravestones Carefully

When you find a gravestone of interest, examine it carefully for the following information:

• Full Name: Record the full name of the deceased, including any middle names or initials.
• Dates of Birth and Death: Note the dates of birth and death, as well as the age at death.
• Family Relationships: Record the names of spouses, parents, and children.
• Epitaph: Transcribe the epitaph, which may provide insights into the person's life, beliefs, or personality.
• Symbols and Markings: Note any symbols or markings on the gravestone, such as religious symbols, military emblems, or fraternal organization logos. These symbols can provide clues about the person's affiliations and interests.
• Gravestone Material and Style: The type of stone used and the style of the gravestone can indicate the person's social status and the time period in which they lived.
• Condition of the Gravestone: Note the condition of the gravestone, including any damage, weathering, or discoloration. This information can be useful for preserving the gravestone and interpreting the inscription.

5. Photograph Gravestones

Photograph each gravestone that you examine, capturing the entire stone as well as close-ups of the inscription and any symbols or markings. Use a high-resolution camera and ensure that the lighting is good. Avoid taking photos in direct sunlight, which can create glare and shadows. If the gravestone is difficult to read, try using a mirror to reflect light onto the inscription or a piece of chalk to highlight the letters (see below for precautions).

6. Transcribe Inscriptions

Transcribe the inscriptions on the gravestones as accurately as possible. Use a notebook and pen to record the information, or type it directly into a laptop or tablet. Pay attention to the spelling, punctuation, and capitalization of the inscription. If the inscription is difficult to read, try using a magnifying glass or a flashlight. Compare your transcription with the photograph of the gravestone to ensure accuracy.

7. Document Your Findings

Keep a detailed record of your cemetery research, including the names of the cemeteries you visited, the dates of your visits, the names of the individuals you researched, and the information you found on their gravestones. Organize your findings in a database, spreadsheet, or genealogy software program. Include photographs of the gravestones and transcriptions of the inscriptions. Cite your sources and document any assumptions or conclusions that you have made.

Gravestone Cleaning and Preservation

Cleaning gravestones can improve their legibility and help preserve them for future generations. However, it's important to use caution and follow best practices to avoid damaging the stones.

1. Assess the Condition of the Gravestone

Before cleaning a gravestone, assess its condition carefully. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or spalling. Avoid cleaning gravestones that are severely damaged or unstable.

2. Use Gentle Cleaning Methods

Use the gentlest cleaning methods possible. Start by brushing the gravestone with a soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris. Then, wash the gravestone with water and a mild detergent, such as dish soap. Use a sponge or soft cloth to gently scrub the stone. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, bleach, or power washers, which can damage the stone.

3. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the gravestone thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of detergent. Use a hose or bucket to pour water over the stone. Avoid using high-pressure water, which can damage the stone.

4. Allow the Gravestone to Dry

Allow the gravestone to dry completely before applying any protective coatings. Avoid cleaning gravestones on hot, sunny days, which can cause the stone to dry too quickly and crack.

5. Consider Professional Cleaning

If you are unsure about how to clean a gravestone properly, consider hiring a professional conservator. Conservators have the expertise and equipment to clean and repair gravestones safely and effectively.

Do NOT use these on any gravestone:

• Bleach
• Wire Brushes
• Power Washers
• Harsh Chemicals

Ethical Considerations in Cemetery Research

Cemetery research involves ethical considerations that should be taken seriously. Remember that cemeteries are sacred places and should be treated with respect and reverence. Here are some ethical guidelines to follow:

• Obtain Permission: Before conducting research in a cemetery, obtain permission from the cemetery owner or caretaker. Follow their rules and regulations.
• Respect the Graves: Treat the graves with respect and avoid walking on them. Do not move or disturb any gravestones or markers.
• Be Mindful of Others: Be mindful of others who may be visiting the cemetery. Avoid making noise or disrupting their peace.
• Do Not Damage Gravestones: Avoid damaging gravestones in any way. Do not clean them with harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Document Your Research: Document your research carefully and cite your sources. Give credit to the individuals and organizations that have assisted you.
• Share Your Findings: Share your findings with others who may be interested in your research. Publish your results in a genealogy journal, online forum, or book.
• Respect Privacy: Be mindful of the privacy of living individuals. Avoid publishing sensitive information about living people without their consent.

Global Resources for Cemetery Research

Cemetery research resources vary from country to country. Here are some general resources and examples of country-specific resources:

General Resources

• International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA): A global organization that provides resources and information for cemetery professionals.
• Association for Gravestone Studies (AGS): An international organization dedicated to the study and preservation of gravestones.
• Find a Grave: A user-generated database of cemetery records from around the world.
• BillionGraves: Another user-generated database that includes photographs and transcriptions of gravestones.
• FamilySearch: A free genealogy website that includes a growing collection of cemetery records.
• Ancestry.com: A subscription-based genealogy website that offers access to a wide range of cemetery records.

Country-Specific Examples

United States

• National Cemetery Administration: Manages national cemeteries and provides resources for veterans' burials.
• State Historical Societies and Genealogical Societies: Often maintain indexes and transcriptions of local cemetery records.

United Kingdom

• The National Archives: Holds records related to burials in the UK.
• Commonwealth War Graves Commission: Maintains records of war dead buried in Commonwealth countries.

Canada

• Library and Archives Canada: Holds records related to burials in Canada.
• Provincial Archives: Often maintain records of local cemeteries.

Australia

• National Archives of Australia: Holds records related to burials in Australia.
• State Archives: Often maintain records of local cemeteries.

Germany

• Standesämter (Civil Registry Offices): Often hold burial records.
• Church Archives: May hold records of burials in church cemeteries.

Advanced Techniques and Tips

Here are some advanced techniques and tips for conducting cemetery research:

• Use Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR): GPR can be used to locate unmarked graves and identify burial locations.
• Analyze Gravestone Art and Symbolism: Gravestone art and symbolism can provide insights into the beliefs and values of the deceased and their community.
• Compare Cemetery Records with Other Genealogical Records: Compare cemetery records with census records, vital records, and other genealogical sources to verify information and identify additional ancestors.
• Consult with Local Experts: Consult with local historians, genealogists, and cemetery caretakers for insights and assistance.
• Consider DNA Testing: DNA testing can help you identify distant relatives and expand your family tree.

Conclusion

Cemetery research is a rewarding and informative way to learn about your ancestors and the history of your community. By following the techniques and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can conduct effective cemetery research and uncover valuable information about your family's past. Remember to treat cemeteries with respect and reverence, and to document your findings carefully. With patience, persistence, and a little bit of luck, you can unlock the secrets hidden within the gravestones and memorial inscriptions of the world's cemeteries.