The importance of Laurel Hill is realized in our connection to infinitely diverse regional, national and personal histories. These histories are often best illustrated by and interpreted through our irreplaceable archival records. Laurel Hill’s collections span the entire history of both cemeteries, from their founding to the present day. The collection contains maps, blueprints, minute books, photographs, contracts, financial documents, ledgers, and newspaper clippings, as well as a small number of objects. The highlight of our collection, however, is the extensive burial records we hold on over 150,000 interments between the two cemeteries. Through The Archives Preservation Fund, we aim to ensure accessibility and encourage the use of these unique resources, while safeguarding them for future generations by fundraising for archival quality housing materials.

The Friends are raising funding to undertake the final phase of this Project, which will comprise the digital scanning of each unique and invaluable document, plan and image contained in our Archives. While this last step is an intensive and time-consuming endeavor, it will forever ensure the preservation of the invaluable information contained in Laurel Hill’s records through the creation of permanent, digital copies. Please help us to realize the completion of this final phase of Archives Preservation through a fully tax-deductible, charitable contribution. 

The Friends gratefully acknowledge Mr. Richard Wood Snowden for his continued commitment to and support of the Archives Preservation Project.

Wreaths Across America is a 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to the values above by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at cemeteries across the country each December. Laurel Hill will be participating in laying wreaths and The Friends of Laurel Hill are registered as a fundraising group. For every wreath sponsored at Laurel Hill specifically through The Friends fundraising page, The Friends receive $5 that will be used towards placing flag holders on marked veteran graves or procuring headstones for unmarked veteran graves.

Wreaths can be sponsored here.