Over the past several months the committee has been working hard to develop a preservation plan for the cemetery. We have consulted with a conservator, a historic preservationist, a fundraising specialist and trades people. Being mindful of the historic significance of the site, we are carefully reviewing all of the detailed proposals to create a plan that addresses all of the cemetery’s needs while trying to control costs. One way to keep costs down is to use volunteers for some of the labor. Under the guidance of a professional conservator, these volunteers will aid tremendously in preparing a site survey, marker condition assessment, marker conservation and general clean-up. This type of program can be an educational experience for the volunteers and a means for community involvement. The volunteer event in September provided an estimated savings of over a thousand dollars in labor costs.
We have also been planning for fundraising. The Central Schwenkfelder Church, who owns the property, has agreed to manage a fund for the preservation effort using their non-profit status. The church has already spent over $9000 removing dense brush and creating a stream crossing to provide access to the site. Thanks to them workers and visitors have a clear path to the cemetery. The rest of the work will require more money. We are close to establishing a budget and timeline and hope to reach out to the community soon to solicit funds. Another option to explore is a historic preservation grant. Generally, these are matching grants allocated to projects that meet certain requirements. The application process requires a lot of historical research and will take some time to prepare.
I have been asked many times about who is buried in the Yeakel Cemetery. Having it’s roots as a private burial ground, there is no official record of interments, like there would be with an incorporated cemetery. However, research has provided much information. I am currently working on a list of names based on existing tombstones and genealogical data. Some of the early lists include names of burials that have not been confirmed. I will attempt to distinguish between the known and suspected burials and publish the list on this website. If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment on this site or contact me through email, my address is theyeakels@verizon.net .
Happy holidays to all!
Yeakel Cemetery 