Historic Headstones Get a Facelift

Volunteers clean headstones at Settlers' Cemetery.

Settlers’ Cemetery was a lively place to be on April 26, as volunteers gathered to clean headstones and monuments.  

Nearly 50 volunteers of all ages joined Mecklenburg County’s Historic Landmarks Department and Historic Elmwood Pinewood, Inc. to give the stones a gentle rinse, scrape, and wipe. Thanks to their efforts, nearly all the headstones in the cemetery were cleared of their dirt, grime and other biological materials. The text on these markers is now more clearly visible, allowing visitors to better understand the stories of those buried at this historic site.  

Volunteers clean a headstone at Settlers' Cemetery.
Volunteers cleaning a headstone at Settlers' Cemetery.

“I was thrilled to see so many new, and returning, faces,” stated Tommy Warlick, historic preservation specialist for Mecklenburg County. “Our friends with Historic Elmwood Pinewood Inc. were very happy with the results.”

Settlers’ Cemetery dates back to approximately 1768. It houses some of the area’s earliest and most prominent families, including the Polks, Davidsons, Caldwells, and Wilkinsons. Learn more about the cemetery.

 The headstone cleaning showcases the importance of volunteers in improving our community and preserving our history. This impact is #TheMeckEffect—positive actions done in our community to create a force for good. Learn how you can get involved with future Historic Landmarks Department events.