Facebook Live - Find a Grave & Tombstone Hunting

Join Crista Cowan, Ancestry’s Corporate Genealogist, for her latest on-demand webinar. Crista buzzes with Halloween excitement, weaving it into her personal and professional life as she dives into the world of cemeteries—perfect for the season. Crista finds these places more serene than spooky, sharing a memorable birthday picnic among the tombstones.

With the crisp fall air as the backdrop, Crista underscores the importance of cemetery etiquette. She advises checking whether a cemetery is public or private before visiting, as this influences access and behavior expectations. Public cemeteries, typically city or county-owned, have posted hours, while private ones, possibly owned by churches or families, might require a bit more detective work. Doing your homework ensures a respectful visit.

For those looking to volunteer or gather specific information, Crista suggests reaching out to cemetery offices. She recounts her experience cleaning up a vandalized site, emphasizing the need to follow guidelines—like using only water on tombstones to prevent damage. Crista’s insights are all about fostering respectful and informed interactions with cemeteries, especially during the Halloween season.