Begin with some groundwork

Verify ownership of the cemetery if possible. Obtain permission from owners of surrounding 
land if the cemetery is landlocked. North Carolina state law requires that permission to 
cross private property in order to study, maintain, or repair an historic cemetery be granted 
for a mutually agreeable date. 
Consider how much you can realistically accomplish. 
And remember the motto of all preservation projects: do no harm! 
Study the site

Explore the cemetery thoroughly before beginning any work. Cut as little plant growth as 
possible at this stage. 
Sketch a map of the locations of each marker and any marker fragments. 
Map any depression in the soil that may indicate the location of a grave. 
Sketch in the location of trees, shrubbery, and flowers, and indicate any pathways or roads, 
gates, fences, etc. Traditional plants, fences, etc., are an integral part of this historic 
site. As you begin to remove unwanted weeds and brush, watch carefully for small metal 
grave markers or toppled stones that may be hidden by plant growth. Add them to your 
map. Don't discard gravestone fragments or unreadable markers. They can provide 
valuable information for researchers. Mark each one on your map and leave it in place as 
you found it (some experts recommend that fragments be buried where found for future 
restoration, but unless a cemetery has “friends” and regular care, this may not be 
advisable). Photograph the cemetery as it is. Mark the camera locations on your map 
for future reference. If possible, provide copies of the photos and map to your local 
historical society for safekeeping.

Gather information 

Learn about care of old gravemarkers. Many broken or toppled markers can be repaired 
and reset if proper materials and techniques are used. 
Learn how to identify types of stone used for gravemarkers in your region. 
Some types of stone are very fragile, some are soft and easily erodable, others 
deteriorate in damp conditions or are damaged by freeze/thaw cycles. 
Not all grave markers are made of stone. Some are cast metal, they sound hollow 
when tapped. 
Identify plants in the graveyard. Learn which ones might be old varieties of 
shrubbery, roses, and perennials still surviving there. Leave them in place. 
Identify heritage trees, too. They all are a living part of this museum; mark them on 
your map. 
Identify native plant species. Some may be rare. Plan to protect them. 
Note native wildlife and birds in the area. Your cemetery may provide essential habitat 
for them. 
Then, begin work 

Always use great care as you work in any old cemetery. Gravestones are heavy and 
can topple.
Some stones might be upright but not anchored in any way to a base. 
Trim grass and weeds around markers and curbs with hand shears. 
Use great care as you remove weeds and invasive plants such as brambles, additional 
graves and markers may be hidden among them. 
Research proper methods of cleaning stones (consider some lichens and mosses as 
a natural part of your outdoor museum.) 
Seek advice from experts on appropriate repair of stones and markers. 
Consider old markers as historic artifacts worthy of your gentle handling. 
Just a few “don'ts” 

Never clean gravestones or markers with bleach, wire brushes, or any harsh or 
abrasive material. Power washing or sandblasting old grave markers can do great 
damage. 
Don't risk damage to soft stone by cutting close with weed eaters or power mowers. 
Never drive a power mower or riding mover over fallen stones or markers, or over 
sunken areas which might indicate gravesites. 
Consider the future 

Photograph your progress and re-map the cemetery when you have finished the 
cleanup. Make an extra notebook with photographs and maps for your local library 
or historical society. 
Let local authorities and the media know about your project and invite them to tour 
the cemetery with you and see the results of your work. 
Register “your” historic cemetery with the Duplin County Historical Society. 
Help enlist local volunteers for the long term care of your cemetery. 
Join a cemetery preservation organization, and keep learning. 
And, please remember ... 

First, do no harm 
When in doubt, ask an expert 
And enjoy your project 




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