Preserving our Gravestones
Learn how to properly clean gravestones with D/2 Biological Solution
We are looking for volunteers to learn how to clean gravestones with D/2 Biological Solution. Our desire is to apply these skills at all of the cemeteries throughout Middleborough over the next few years. On June 7th and June 8th, 2014, members of the Friends of Middleborough Cemeteries traveled to Rehoboth to a workshop held by the Rehoboth Cemetery Commission to learn how to clean gravestones from monument conservator Jonathan Appell.
Since 2015, we have been sharing what we learned by training volunteers with our group on the proper use of D/2 Biological Solution.
The cleaning team goes out during the warmer weather any day of the week, weather permitting. Anyone interested in cleaning headstones will receive an email with the date, time and location a few days in advance.
If you wish to learn how to clean gravestones, click the "Become a Volunteer" button!
Since 2015, we have been sharing what we learned by training volunteers with our group on the proper use of D/2 Biological Solution.
The cleaning team goes out during the warmer weather any day of the week, weather permitting. Anyone interested in cleaning headstones will receive an email with the date, time and location a few days in advance.
If you wish to learn how to clean gravestones, click the "Become a Volunteer" button!
Gravestones are engraved with the names and dates of the people whose graves they identify. Middleborough has 300 years worth of gravestones. Over time the stones become obscured with all manner of biological substances, such as lichens, molds, tree sap, and animal droppings (not to mention the air pollution received due to their roadside locations). The engravings can become readable once again, but must be done properly.
Gravestones are pieces of art. Our earliest slate gravestones contain carvings that are cultural artifacts of our colonial ancestors. Our white marble gravestones and monuments combine carvings with sculpture. Our latest markers use lasers to etch magnificent images into the granite. Wander any of our cemeteries and appreciate the beauty of our outdoor museums. Now imagine these artworks restored. We can do this. D/2 Biological Solution is the product most often used by the preservation community. It was designed to removes stains from mold, algae, mildew, lichens and air pollutants. In 2011, the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT) issued the results of a 6 year study on the subject of commercially available cleaners for removing biological growth from and general soiling from marble gravestones. As a result, the VA uses biocidal cleaners, and not bleach-containing cleaners, for the regular maintenance of their 3 million marble gravestones. D/2 Biological Solution is the product used to keep the White House white and the Acropolis of Athens clean. Whereas D/2 Biological Solution has been deemed suitable for those site, it is most certainly good enough for the monument to our Ancestors, Families, and Friends. D/2 Biological Solution is the product most suited to our needs. We have a fund set up for this purpose, and we encourage your support. |