HAR personnel have been involved in over 100 investigations and studies of 19th and early 20th century cemeteries. Our consultants utilize state-of-the-art survey and mapping techniques in conjunction with electromagnetic subsurface imaging methods to accurately map cemetery properties. We have the technical expertise, gained through many years of practical experience, to assist in the management of damaged or less well defined and documented cemetery properties. No project should be considered too large or small.

Site Mapping and Inventory:

Accurate cemetery site maps and inventories are essential to managing a cemetery property. It is critical that cemetery stewards have up to date and accurate information to pass on to future generations who will inherit the responsibility of perpetual site management. Using an electronic total survey station and Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, HAR technicians create precision site maps depicting all visible surface features of a cemetery property. The map can be used either to augment and confirm existing burial records, or the grave marker reading and burial data can be created as a function of the data collection. The result is an accurate representation of the current cemetery conditions and burial records both graphically (maps), and in spreadsheet format. Many older cemetery records are inaccurate and or incomplete. HAR can assist in correcting these issues.

Subsurface Imaging:

It is often questionable whether vacant areas in older cemetery properties are really vacant? Over time, cemetery surface features become altered, including many grave markers and monuments that disintegrate, become buried and that have been moved or destroyed leaving gaps and open areas on the premises. HAR has empirically developed cemetery survey procedures that utilize multiple geophysical measurement techniques, magnetometry, VLF metal detection and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to identify and pinpoint buried features. Unmarked graves identified in this manner may be added to site maps and inventories; vacant areas may be staked out in standard burial plots for sale or future use.

Whether your needs are in accurate cemetery site mapping and documentation only; or in comprehensive survey and subsurface study of a cemetery property, HAR can assess your needs and provide you with the services you require to better understand and utilize the cemetery properties in question.

Cemetery Restoration Professionals:

Stonehugger Cemetery Restoration, Inc.
Stone Saver Cemetery Restoration

Contact HAR for consultation and free estimates:

Historic Archaeological Research
4338 Hadley Court
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Office: (765) 464-8735
Mobile: (765) 427-4082
info@har-indy.com