Michigan Historic Preservation Network

WORKSHOPS

Upcoming Workshops

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Advanced Cemetery Preservation Workshop

$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.
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.

  • 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.

September 13, 2025

9 AM – 3 PM ET

Glenwood Historical Cemetery and Arboretum – Flint, Michigan

Hands-on Masonry Workshop

This event is mostly hands-on with secondary element of lecture, teaching the basics of tuckpointing, mortar and plaster.

$100 Registration Fee

CONTACT: RHONDA BAKER (CITY OF GR) – RBAKER@GRCITY.US –
456-3451

October 18, 2025

8 AM – 4:30 PM ET

963 Richmond NW Grand Rapids
Richmond Park Pavilion

Practical Preservation Workshops

These workshops are designed to educate historic home owners and commercial building owners on the benefits of historic preservation. The participants will gain a profound understanding of restoration techniques and methods, at the same time, discovering invaluable ways to save money.

Workshop participants will gain the knowledge and skills they need to perform masterful restorations as well as a greater appreciation for the cost-effectiveness of historic preservation. 

Video: Working with Windows in 5 parts

In this 5-part YouTube series, the Michigan Historic Preservation Network and Michigan State Historic Preservation Office provides “simple steps for working windows.”

Understanding Preservation Practices

Realtor Education Workshop

Join the Michigan Historic Preservation Network for this workshop to equip Realtors and real estate professionals with tools to help market and sell older homes. Learn how to communicate the value of owning a historic property to your clientele!

Continuing Education: The workshop offers two elective CE credit hours. 

For more information, please call us at 517.371.8080

or e-mail us at Info@mhpn.org