County council in Donegal, Ireland has commissioned a research project to survey and record the condition and archaeological heritage of 50 cemeteries in the county. Most of these cemeteries are protected under the National Monuments Acts.
Called, Condition Survey of Historic Graveyards in the Guardianship of Donegal County Council, the project has already begun.
Building on existing information, the research project will include:
- recording the condition and maintenance of the archaeological and built heritage of each of the 50 historic graveyards;
- compiling a base map and photographic record of the graveyards; and
- liaising with local history and historical groups.
One of the project objectives is to receive and collate information from the public and local historical groups. County council is aware that a number of community groups have researched, written site specific conservation plans, and carried out remedial repairs to various structures.
In addition to hearing from community groups, county council wants information from the general public. Locals and visiting tourists can often highlight issues, such as vandalism or rapid deterioration of the boundary walls, structures or graves.
Donegal County Council welcomes contributions from the public relating to any folklore associated with the sites, structures or graves. They are also interested in old photos and maps of these cemeteries.
A Facebook page on the project has been set up, and information and inquiries can be sent by email at linda.langford@johncronin.ie.
