A Beginners Guide to Researching Cemetery Records

Cemetery records hold a wealth of information for genealogists, historians, and anyone seeking to uncover stories from the past. However, navigating these records can be daunting, especially for those new to the process. This guide outlines key steps in researching cemetery records, highlighting valuable resources and real-life examples.

Map of Brookside Cemetery in Watertown, NY

Step 1: Identify the Cemetery

Before beginning your research, it’s essential to determine the cemetery where your ancestor or person of interest is buried. This can be accomplished by:

Checking online directories like Find A Grave or BillionGraves
Consulting local historical societies or genealogical organizations
Reviewing family documents, such as obituaries or funeral programs

Step 2: Locate Cemetery Records

Once the cemetery has been identified, the next step is to locate its records, which may include:

Interment Records – Documenting the burial date, time, and location
Grave Registers – Providing details about the grave’s owner, location, and marker
Cemetery Maps – Illustrating the cemetery layout, including grave locations and other features

Valuable resources for locating these records include:

Local libraries and archives
Cemetery offices and administrative buildings
Online databases such as FamilySearch

Step 3: Analyze and Verify the Records

After obtaining cemetery records, it’s crucial to analyze and verify the information by:

Cross-referencing records with other sources, such as birth and death certificates or newspaper articles
Identifying inconsistencies or discrepancies in the records
Consulting experts or local historians for additional insights

Real-Life Example: Mount Auburn Cemetery

Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is one of the oldest garden cemeteries in the United States. Researching records for this cemetery might involve:

Checking the cemetery’s website for online records and databases
Visiting the cemetery office to access interment records and grave registers
Consulting local historical societies or genealogical organizations for further guidance

Conclusion

Researching cemetery records can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. By following these steps and utilizing the resources outlined above, you can uncover valuable details about your ancestors and the cemeteries where they rest.

References

Cemetery Research – National Genealogical Society
Finding Cemetery Records – FamilySearch
Cemetery Records: A Guide to Research – American Society of Genealogists

Note: The sources provided include a mix of online resources, books, and articles intended as a starting point for further research.

Until next time!