Title:
Graveyard Concrete
Author(s):
Kelsey Sheridan and Kimberly Kramer
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
10/26/2025
Abstract:
This presentation delves into the research by Luke and Billie Snell, featured in Concrete International, on the durability and historical significance of graveyard concrete. New Orleans’ cemeteries, often called “Cities of the Dead,” are renowned for their architectural beauty and their resemblance to small cities. Rows of tombs, built with brick and covered in cement plaster or lime-and-cement stucco, are arranged like city streets, mirroring societal divisions based on wealth, religion, and social status. The presentation examines the historical practices of burial and tomb maintenance, focusing on the role of materials like lime and cement in the construction and preservation of these crypts and mausoleums. This discussion will address how inappropriate materials can accelerate deterioration and how evolving social and economic factors, such as perpetual care policies and unclear ownership records, have contributed to the decline of cemetery conditions. The scarcity of qualified contractors knowledgeable about traditional materials further complicates restoration efforts. Ultimately, this presentation emphasizes the importance of community engagement, proper preservation practices, and a deeper understanding of the architectural and cultural significance of these historic sites. As New Orleans works to rebuild and preserve its rich heritage, addressing these challenges is crucial to safeguarding the unique legacy of the “Cities of the Dead.”