Philly's neglected graves to be talked about by researcher Ed Snyder at the Athenaeum Speaker Series event
### Discovering Philadelphia's Hidden Historical Burial Sites
In a city steeped in history, the unearthing of forgotten cemeteries has become a frequent occurrence. This week, historian Ed Snyder will delve into this intriguing topic in his speech titled "Abandoned and Forgotten Cemeteries of Philadelphia and its Environs," taking place at the Athenaeum's Busch Room on Thursday at 2 p.m.
Snyder's research, supported by the Athenaeum's extensive archives and collections, focuses on the abandoned graves that dot the city, a topic he deems relevant due to Philadelphia's age and the common discovery of such graves during construction.
One recent discovery that Snyder may discuss is the graveyard found under a parking lot at Temple University, which was revealed to hold over 28,000 graves. This incident underscores the importance of preserving these historical sites, a task that Snyder encourages the public to participate in.
The Athenaeum, a historic institution founded in 1814 to provide access to knowledge, special collections, and spaces for intellectual discussion and studying, has been at the forefront of this endeavour. In fact, their virtual lecture in 2021 on Monument Cemetery was their most viewed video on YouTube.
In addition to Snyder's speech, the Athenaeum will also be welcoming an additional monthly speaker as part of its partnership with the Preservation Alliance, beginning in the fall.
Historical burial sites in Philadelphia include the Christ Church Burial Ground, one of the most historically significant cemeteries dating back to 1719. Notable figures such as Benjamin and Deborah Franklin, Dr. Benjamin Rush, and Francis Hopkinson are buried here.
Another important site is the Germantown Mennonite Cemetery, located adjacent to the historic Germantown Mennonite Meetinghouse, which is part of the first permanent Mennonite settlement in North America.
The Philadelphia Archaeological Forum's Historical Burial Places Map, a comprehensive database, includes numerous unmarked and marked cemeteries across the city, showcasing work by researchers like Charles Barker and Rene L.C. Torres. The Forum works to minimize impacts on historical burial sites by making research publicly available and promoting preservation.
Community engagement is also crucial in the management and preservation of these historical sites. Public awareness and engagement through tours and educational programs are essential for maintaining these grounds and ensuring their continued importance in the city's history.
Admission for Snyder's speech is free for Athenaeum members and $20 for nonmembers. For full details, visit the event's webpage.
- After discussing the historical buried sites in Philadelphia, it's essential to turn our attention to the lesser-known aspects of the city, such as its home-and-garden lifestyle, in order to create a holistic understanding of the city's tapestry.
- Moving forward, the Preservation Alliance's partnership with the Athenaeum will not only continue to shed light on forgotten historical burial sites but also encourage exploration of other aspects of urban life, such as home-and-garden culture.
