Conservation, Education, and Display

Abstract

Many issues of conservation, education and display that apply to burial grounds are similar to those in other aspects of archaeology, and only some of the issues, which are especially significant or may be different in this context, are elaborated upon here. Particular sensitivity is required because of the ethical and emotional factors associated with burial, and greater sensitivity and consultation than is legally required may be appropriate. Archaeologists showing care and respect for burials and monuments can, however, be much appreciated by descendants and local in- habitants alike. Indeed, one of the greatest threats to burial grounds is vandalism, and the archaeologists’ interest in the site, if publicized and popularized within the wider community, can do more to ensure its preservation than any professional heritage management strategy alone. That is why conservation, education and in- terpretation are so closely inter-linked. Many government agencies have produced conservation and management guidelines, some mainly for the public (Fitzpatrick, 1995), others with more detail to support professional or volunteer action (Anson- Cartright, 1997; Maxwell et al., 2001; McGahee, 1997; Thompson, 1989).