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Board requests guidance on tombstone cleaning and preservation methods
Summary
Board members requested and agreed to share resources on safe cleaning methods for historic tombstones, discussed limitations for cleaning limestone and marble and planned a live demonstration at a future outreach event.
Board members sought guidance on appropriate cleaning and preservation techniques for older gravestones and discussed inviting demonstrations as part of outreach events.
A board member asked for instructions on how to clean headstones; one experienced participant recommended soap, water and a soft brush and cautioned against chemicals depending on the stone type. Members noted that many older markers are made of limestone, which is fragile and should not be aggressively cleaned. One member said resources and training videos are available through BillionGraves and similar conservation sources.
The board discussed arranging a practical demonstration during a future tour or outreach event and asking a local maintenance contractor who already visits cemetery sites to speak about weekly maintenance routines. Members also raised concern about large cement toppers on older graves that are deteriorating and discussed researching long-term weather-resistant repair solutions; one member suggested epoxy as a possibility but the group did not adopt any treatment and noted repairs require technical review.
Ending: The board agreed that Kelly will circulate links to online training resources (for example, BillionGraves cleaning guides) and that the group will pursue a demonstration at a future outreach event rather than adopting repair methods without further technical advice.
