Spring Cemetery Conservation Workshop
Saturday, May 11, 2024
The Spring 2024 Arkansas Historic Preservation Program (AHPP) Cemetery Conservation Workshop will be held at Mt. Ida Cemetery, 242 Luzerne Street, Mt. Ida, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 11, 2024.
The free workshop on the basics of cemetery conservation, featuring instruction by Rusty Brenner of Texas Cemetery Restoration, will address common concerns in preservation and maintenance of cemeteries and offer hands-on training.
The workshop will be hands-on, attendees are encouraged to participate in cleaning, making basic repairs, and the leveling and straightening of gravestones. Tents will be provided in case of rain. Chairs are available, but if you need a stool, you are encouraged to bring one. Gloves and comfortable clothing are also encouraged.
Workshop is limited to 40 registrants. Lunch will be served at the Mt. Ida Church of God. Please inform us if you need a vegetarian option.
Directions and Parking:
The Mt. Ida Cemetery is located at 242 Luzerne Street, Mt. Ida. Parking is at Mt. Ida Church of God, 242 Luzerne Street.
About Rusty Brenner
Rusty Brenner of Texas Cemetery Restoration brings his monument restoration expertise to Arkansas to benefit those who care for cemeteries, large and small. Attendees at the numerous workshops he has conducted across the state have implemented his instruction in repair, cleaning and leveling in their own burying grounds. Others have utilized his tested techniques to assist others in saving their fragile gravestones.
This important workshop will allow attendees to perpetuate links to their past, their families, and their community by preserving unique funerary art and architecture. This work can also incite interest on the part of younger participants in maintaining and carrying on the stories. Please join us for this important workshop and take part in carrying on the history of these significant sites.
Agenda – Saturday, May 11
9 a.m. – noon
Introductions and workshop overview.
Cleaning, leveling and basic repairs will be covered.
Noon – 1 p.m.
Lunch on the grounds provided by the AHPP.
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Continue with cleaning, leveling and basic repairs.
Registration and Questions:
Contact Holly Hope at (501) 324-9148 or [email protected]
Day of workshop (501) 681-2120
Special thanks to:
Heritage House Museum of Montgomery County, director Jeannie Brakefield
Heritage House Museum of Montgomery County, board members, Debbie Baldwin, Stan Graves, Paula Newsom
Mt. Ida Church of God