On January 30 from 9:30 – 10:45 AM, CTA Lost Cemeteries Task Force members Andrea Stahman Burden and Dr. Ashley Lemke will be presenting at the Texas Historical Commission’s Real Places Conference:

Lost and Found: The Nexus of Cemetery Identification, Archeology, Urban Planning, and Community Involvement

Abstract: With the rapid growth and development of cities in Texas, one unfortunate side effect is the damage and disturbance to “lost cemeteries,” which is occurring at an unprecedented level. In order to understand how this occurs, in-depth research is necessary to examine how rapid urbanization, gentrification, and changing social structures of neighborhoods have contributed. Detailed case studies will demonstrate how the intersection of archival research, archeological investigations, and preservation efforts can prevent inadvertent destruction of cemeteries. When cemeteries are rediscovered, the outcome is complex—attendees will learn which preservation laws are applicable, dictated by public or private land ownership, and how communities can proceed. Recommendations will also be provided for urban planners, historic preservationists, and city leaders to develop a preservation toolkit to identify partners and stakeholders prior to development.

For more information on Real Places: https://web.cvent.com/event/4c8adf82-83fe-4c3f-aab8-e0b99e78e289/summary