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Stories of a Pleasant Green Space: Cemetery Records and Archives

Cox, Richard J. (2011) Stories of a Pleasant Green Space: Cemetery Records and Archives. Archival Issues, 33 (2). pp. 88-99. (In Press)

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    Abstract

    The places and methods for burying the dead have always been a concern of human civilization. Many histories have been written about our changing views of memorials and remembrance, often based upon tombstones and statuary in cemeteries. Often overlooked, however, are the written records associated with cemeteries. This article provides an overview of some of the issues that lead to irregularities in recordkeeping, difficulties with access to and preservation of many of these records, and serious problems that result from poor maintenance of records. Suggestions are offered to begin efforts to address some of these issues, and a call for assistance from the professional archival community to advance the preservation of these vital records is put forth. It is important to recognize that cemetery records are a rich source of historical information that are not recognized as such, and, as a result, are not being protected as they should be.

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    Details

    Item Type: Article
    Title: Stories of a Pleasant Green Space: Cemetery Records and Archives
    Status: In Press
    Centers: Other Centers, Institutes, or Units > Center for Biologic Imaging
    Abstract: The places and methods for burying the dead have always been a concern of human civilization. Many histories have been written about our changing views of memorials and remembrance, often based upon tombstones and statuary in cemeteries. Often overlooked, however, are the written records associated with cemeteries. This article provides an overview of some of the issues that lead to irregularities in recordkeeping, difficulties with access to and preservation of many of these records, and serious problems that result from poor maintenance of records. Suggestions are offered to begin efforts to address some of these issues, and a call for assistance from the professional archival community to advance the preservation of these vital records is put forth. It is important to recognize that cemetery records are a rich source of historical information that are not recognized as such, and, as a result, are not being protected as they should be.
    Date: 2011
    Date Type: Publication
    Access Restriction: No restriction; Release the ETD for access worldwide immediately.
    Patent pending: No
    Journal or Publication Title: Archival Issues
    Volume: 33
    Number: 2
    Publisher: Midwest Archives Conference
    Page Range: pp. 88-99
    Institution: University of Pittsburgh
    Refereed: Yes
    Uncontrolled Keywords: archives; cemeteries;
    Schools and Programs: School of Information Sciences > Information Science
    Date Deposited: 21 Nov 2011 09:51
    Last Modified: 21 Nov 2011 09:51

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