Scotland’s historic gravestones are a rich part of the nation’s heritage, yet exposure to time and the elements mean that this valued resource is under threat.
Unfortunately, the number of surviving historic gravestones far outstrips the resources that are available to care for and conserve them. As a result, historic gravestones stand a far better chance of survival when members of the public become involved in their conservation. Although some work can only be carried out by professional conservators, members of the public can play an active and important part in conservation programmes. By working in co-operation with those who have a professional, statutory or special interest in historic gravestones and graveyards you are helping to ensure the survival of an historic gravestone. Scotland’s Historic Graveyards web resource provides the resources groups need to take on all aspects of graveyard recording and conservation.
Archaeology Scotland supports such graveyard projects as part of its Adopt a Monument Scheme. So if you have a particular graveyard in mind and would like to take part in the Adopt-a-Monument Scheme please contact us at adopt@archaeologyscotland.org.uk or on 03000129878
Documents
Abandoned structures in graveyards
An introduction to graveyard recording
Emergency measures for historic memorials
Good Practice in Maintaining a Graveyard
Gravestone with condition survey
Graveyard recording form, part 1
Graveyard recording form, parts 2 and 3
Graveyard recording form, part 4
Graveyard recording form, part 5
Health and safety: visitors and owners
Historic Scotland graveyard grants
Identifying algae, lichen and moss
Melville Tomb, Collessie Conservation Report
Research in Inscription Paleography