Registration open for fall workshops on historic gravestone preservation
Those interested in learning more about best practices in the cleaning, leveling, and repairing of historic gravestones are encouraged to sign up for a workshop in Henderson County this October.
Two workshops are being held near Athens, with both locations about 1.5 hours from Waxahachie.
“Cemetery preservationists use special techniques, materials, and equipment to care for gravestones using a Do-No-Harm ethic,” a spokesman said. “These workshops will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to undertake a gravestone preservation project successfully.”
Instruction will be provided by Texas Cemetery Restoration’s Rusty Brenner.
The first workshop is slated for Thursday-Friday, Oct. 16-17, at New York Cemetery. This is a full, two-day workshop covering general cemetery preservation basics, as well as gravestone cleaning, leveling, and multiple types of repairs. Participants will work hands-on with a variety of materials and tools to clean and repair gravestones in the historic New York Cemetery. Participants must attend both days.
The workshop will run from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. each day; registration is $30. Participants bring their own food and drinks.
New York Cemetery location on Google Maps
The second workshop will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, at Fincastle Cemetery. During this half-day (morning) workshop, participants will learn basic information for getting started on a cemetery preservation project and will work hands-on to clean dirt and biological growth from historic gravestones in Fincastle Cemetery. Minors are welcome to participate but must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
The workshop will run from 9 a.m.-noon; registration is $10. Participants bring their own food and drinks.
Fincastle Cemetery location on Google Maps
Registration is limited. Participants should wear gardening clothes with closed-toe shoes. They should bring a chair, a hat, sun protection, gloves, and bug spray.
For more information and to register, visit here.
