Michigan Historic Preservation Network

Advanced Cemetery Preservation Workshop

Advanced Cemetery Preservation Workshop

September 13, 2025

9 AM – 3 PM ET

 

Glenwood Historical Cemetery and Arboretum – Flint, Michigan

$95 per participant (includes all materials and safety gear)

 

The Michigan Historic Preservation Network invites you to an advanced, full-day training in cemetery preservation on the historic grounds of Glenwood Historical Cemetery and Arboretum in Flint. Designed for caretakers, advanced volunteers, and preservation professionals, this workshop offers in-depth instruction on the ethical, material, and technical aspects of gravestone conservation in Michigan.

Registration Deadline: Friday, September 5, 2025

Led by Dr. Thomas Henthorn (University of Michigan-Flint), Suzy Ferguson (A Loving Legacy), and Melanie Purkis (historic masonry specialist, Purkis Cemetery Preservation), the workshop features a mix of expert presentations, live demonstrations, and supervised hands-on cleaning practice.

Workshop Agenda:

 

  • Welcome and IntroductionThomas Henthorn
    An overview of the day’s goals and a brief history of Glenwood Cemetery.
  • Ethics, Permissions, and PlanningThomas Henthorn
    A focused discussion on legal and ethical issues in cemetery preservation, including obtaining permission, respecting descendant communities, and planning appropriate interventions.
  • Materials in Michigan CemeteriesThomas Henthorn
    Learn to identify and assess common stone types—such as marble, limestone, sandstone, and granite—and understand their preservation needs and vulnerabilities.
  • Headstone Cleaning TechniquesSuzy Ferguson, A Loving Legacy
    A comprehensive session on conservation-approved cleaning practices:
    • Products: Selecting biological and chemical cleaners appropriate for historic stone
    • Methods: Step-by-step demonstration of effective and safe cleaning techniques
    • Dos and Don’ts: Key principles to avoid unintentional damage
    • Hands-On Cleaning: Participants will clean historic markers under guided supervision
  • Lunch Break
  • Lifting and Setting Stones (Demonstration Only)Thomas Henthorn and Suzy Ferguson
    Participants will observe a live demonstration of how to safely assess, lift, and reset fallen or leaning grave markers using preservation-grade tools and techniques.
  • Adhesives and Mortars for Historic Stone RepairMelanie Purkis
    Learn about the selection and use of adhesives and lime mortars in gravestone conservation. Topics include preparation, mixing, application, and long-term performance in Michigan’s climate.