DIY Cemetery Field Research Supply Kit Checklist

Like a research trip to the library or courthouse, you need to be prepared for an expedition to the cemetery. I have a tote bag with my cemetery tools just for such excursions. Whenever I need to make visit a graveyard, I’m ready to go!

Cemetery Field Research Kit Supplies

• cell phone car charger and cord
• digital camera with extra batteries and extra storage card
• handheld whisk broom for clearing grass or dirt off the base of stones
• soft paint brush to gently remove dirt from stones
• small garden sheers or scissors to trim grass from around stones
• spray bottle for water to wet stones for better readability
• kneeling pad for clearing away overgrown weeds and grass that hamper reading or photographing the inscription
• portable light reflector or full-length mirror to reflect light for photos
• copies of the cemetery transcription form
• copy of the Tombstone Iconography Quick Guide
• notepad and pen or pencils (always copy down the inscription, even though you may take a photograph)
• vest or apron with multiple pockets for your equipment
• bottled water and snacks
• sunscreen
• moist towelettes to clean your hands
• bug repellent
• first-aid kit
• backpack or “Cemetery Life” Weekender Bag

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