Preserving the Past A Closer Look at Copps Hill Gravestone Conservation

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground's gravestone conservation project, spanning from 2018 to 2024, addressed the deterioration of over 2,230 grave markers. The initiative, funded with $204,400 in grants, was executed in phases, focusing on specific sections of the site. The total expenditure reached $739,280, with phase two costing significantly more due to increased marker counts and post-COVID price hikes. Initially, 135 gravestones were conserved in phase one, with the number rising to 143 in phase two as conditions were reassessed. An increase in resetting-only gravestones occurred, with phase two identifying 400 markers needing resetting without conservation.

The project faced logistical challenges due to the site’s difficult access, surrounded by walls and buildings. The Boston Parks and Recreation Department highlighted the necessity of performing conservation in controlled environments for optimal results. This effort not only preserves historical markers but also enhances the site's overall aesthetic and cultural significance.