This new course is designed to address the unique documentation and research challenges presented by African-American and formerly enslaved historic cemeteries. Participants will learn photography for documentation using techniques specific to these sites and will complete a hands-on practicum to reinforce the skills covered in the course.

Course Details

This is a one-day course from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The main topics covered during the course are:

1. Why cemetery conservation is important.
2. How to complete genealogy research in African American and formerly enslaved cemeteries, including a practicum.
3. How to photograph gravestones for documentation.

Questions You May Have

1. What should I wear?
   Please wear clothes you are comfortable learning and sitting in.
2. How many people are in the class?
   There will be a maximum of 25 people in the class.
3. What if I am sick or have a last-minute emergency come up during the course?
   This course is offered in a limited capacity throughout the year. We ask that you attend unless you are ill or have an emergency. If you cannot attend, please contact the Director of Training, Samantha Ferringer, at (845) 596-6616 as soon as possible. The $45 fee is non-refundable.
4. Are there any other materials that I need to bring?
   Notebooks and pens will be provided. If there are specific materials you are more comfortable using, please bring them with you.
5. What happens when I finish the course?
   Upon completing this course, you will receive a certificate of completion and a cemetery handbook summarizing the information provided in the course, along with outside references.

If you have any further questions about this course, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Email: info@loudouncemeteryconservancy.org
Alfred Van Huyck, Executive Director: (703) 624-5536
Samantha Ferringer, Director of Training: (845) 596-6616