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Cemetery Studies

Cemetery Studies for Identification, Relocation & Reburial of Remains

When a project involves a known cemetery, a potential burial site, or the possibility of previously unrecorded human remains, specialized expertise is essential, which is what we are prepared to provide. ACI conducts comprehensive cemetery studies that combine historical research, field investigations, and regulatory guidance while treating every site with the sensitivity it deserves. 

How ACI Can Help

Cemetery studies can require compliance with federal and state regulations, and ACI’s senior staff includes anthropologists, historians, and archaeologists with extensive expertise in researching and identifying cemeteries and burial sites. With decades of experience, a thorough understanding of applicable statutes, and advanced investigative methods, ACI provides the due diligence and guidance needed to keep projects moving forward. 

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What Cemetery Studies Include

Detailed cemetery studies go beyond identifying the location of human remains, demanding careful historical research, technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, and a respectful approach with every finding — and during all stages of the process. Our cemetery experts are not only experienced, but are trained on Cemetery Resource Protection (CRP) and have served as expert witnesses before regulatory bodies. Explore our core capabilities to learn how ACI can fulfill your project’s needs.

Core Capabilities

Documentation, Reburial & Removal
As needed, ACI's bioarchaeology team can document skeletal remains, and remove and rebury remains when required. The relocation of cemeteries and burials is culturally sensitive — and ACI's staff understands the respect that must be shown to the interred, as well as descendent communities whenever possible in the relocation process.
Available LiDAR & GPR Experts
When necessary, ACI can deploy its in-house LiDAR and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) specialists, or consult with other experts as needed, to help identify potential cemeteries and unmarked burial sites. These minimally-disruptive technologies provide valuable information during cemetery studies, supporting historical research, field investigations, and informed project planning without disturbing sensitive areas.
Detailed Reviews of Records
Recognizing that cemeteries are sometimes forgotten, ACI works to review all possible sources to evaluate the potential for a cemetery within or adjacent to project areas. Early plat records, historic aerial photographs, and quadrangle/topographic maps are a good start. We also check plantation locations and historic church locations, which can provide information about potentially unmarked or forgotten cemeteries.

When to Contact ACI

Cemetery Studies May Be Needed to Continue Your Project

Cemeteries can be unmarked and found accidently when land is altered. Knowing how to respond is essential when a potential site is identified. If you have made a discovery or have concerns regarding human burial sites, the first step is starting a conversation with our team at ACI. 

From the First Conversation to a Clear Path Forward

Every project begins with understanding the entire situation. ACI reviews your project location, timeline, available documentation such as photos or descriptions of what was found, known requirements, and any concerns regarding cultural resources to determine the most appropriate path forward.

 

Your Details Help Us Determine the Scope

Using the information you provided, our team determines whether additional research, field investigations, technical studies, or other services are appropriate. We then develop a clear plan and provide the documentation or recommendations needed to support your project.

 

Need Cemetery Studies for a Project or Property?

If you know cemetery studies are what your project requires, or are unsure which services you need from ACI, we are always available to answer questions. Contact our team, tell us about your project, and we will place you on a clear path forward.