PRESERVING THE MEMORY: PROTECTING WASHINGTON, D.C.’S PRIVATELY-OWNED, HISTORIC CEMETERIES

Abstract

Due to the poor condition of Holy Rood Cemetery on Wisconsin Avenue, NW, in Washington, D.C., it was surmised that all historic cemeteries within the District of Columbia are poorly preserved. A survey of nine of D.C.’s historic, privately-owned cemeteries was conducted in order to assess the conditions of access/security, circulation, vegetation, grave markers, and significant structures, and further, any interpretation or additional features, of each of the cemeteries. The results of the survey are analyzed in light of information acquired from a cemetery questionnaire, to determine the conditions of the cemeteries and how the cemeteries respond to specific preservation issues. The findings of the analysis detail the factors that affect cemetery conditions and inform recommendations for cemetery preservation.