How is Gravestone Data Collected?

1. Using a laser rangefinder and high accuracy GPS equipment, we record the exact location of each family or individual burial site.  This information is stored in a GIS (Geographic Information System) which allows us to analyze and categorize the data. 
2. Photos are taken of every inscription on the gravestone(s) that are located at a particular burial site. 
3. The photos of the inscriptions are then transcribed by a team of individuals who enter the data into a database.
4. Graveyard Maps are created that combine both the inscription data as well as the exact location of each gravestone.
5. Upon request, any name, date or combination of data can be researched using our database. 

An example of our work is Pine Grove Cemetery in Manchester, NH.  Over 32 acres of the oldest sections of this cemetery have been mapped.  The data includes the gravestone inscriptions from over 3,700 family plots.  In addition, the exact position of each family plot has been recorded using a high-accuracy GPS unit and a Laser Rangefinder.  All 7,000 photos have been transcribed by our transcription team and the data is currently available for research purposes.  

The dataset includes the following fields:

• First Name and Last Name of each person listed on the gravestone (this will often include Maiden names).
• Birth and Death Date of each individual listed (exact date is included if indicated in the inscription).
• Relationship as indicated such as Son, Daughter, Mother, Wife, etc.
• Extra Notes about the gravestone such as inscriptions of symbols such as Veteran, Masonic, Odd Fellows, ect.

If you have a particular name or date that you would like to have researched, we will provide you with a report for a  nominal fee that helps to offset the costs of the project and enables us to continue this valuable research.  In addition, we can provide you with a customized map that includes the location of the gravestones that are of interest to you.

The dataset includes the following fields:

• First Name and Last Name of each person listed on the gravestone (this will often include Maiden names).
• Birth and Death Date of each individual listed (exact date is included if indicated in the inscription).
• Relationship as indicated such as Son, Daughter, Mother, Wife, etc.
• Extra Notes about the gravestone such as inscriptions of symbols such as Veterans, G.A.R. (Grand Army of the Republic), Masonic, Odd Fellows.

For further information or to request a report please contact Ron Rioux at ron@equatormapping.com