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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