Ed Snyder, a scholar and photographer known for his expertise in the history of abandoned cemeteries, is set to share his findings in a lecture titled “Abandoned and Forgotten Cemeteries of Philadelphia and its Environs” at the Athenaeum this Thursday at 2 p.m.
The event will delve into updates on recently uncovered burial sites, including one at Temple University, which has revealed a cemetery containing 28,000 graves beneath a parking lot.
Snyder’s research highlights the issues surrounding the management of historical burial grounds in Philadelphia, a city rich in history and often unearthing its past during construction activities.
“Finding human remains during construction is not uncommon in Philadelphia due to the rapid growth of the city, which often led to the hasty dismantling of cemeteries to accommodate development,” Snyder explained.
More than 200 historical burial sites have been documented by the Philadelphia Archeological Forum, a resource Snyder hopes will be referenced by developers before they break ground on new projects.
He provided an alarming example, recounting an incident at Second and Arch Street where workers unexpectedly discovered a mass grave with thousands of bodies because there were no prior records to indicate the area’s significance.
Earlier this year’s discovery at Temple University is likely to prompt reevaluation of construction plans, illustrating the ongoing relevance of Snyder’s work.
“Such discoveries are not just incidents; they represent crucial chapters in the city’s history that, once lost, cannot be retrieved,” he added.
When unanticipated human remains are uncovered, Snyder hopes that current protocols and historical precedents will guide the actions of those involved in such situations.
“In the past, there have been instances where better preparation could have mitigated these issues, but sometimes, unexpected events occur,” he stated.
He encourages local individuals interested in the preservation of cemeteries to get involved through volunteer work, emphasizing its importance for maintaining historic properties.
“Volunteerism plays a crucial role in the upkeep of cemeteries, which have limited means of income once they reach full capacity,” Snyder noted.
The Athenaeum has long supported Snyder’s work, and Patricia Altman, director of programs and engagement, expressed excitement for his return following his successful virtual lecture in 2021 on the Monument Cemetery, which became the most viewed lecture on their YouTube channel.
According to Altman, Snyder’s ongoing research aligns with the Athenaeum’s mission of promoting local issues and discussing the built environment, a vital aspect of community awareness.
“We hope attendees will leave the lecture with a heightened understanding of the city’s development, the hidden historical narratives around them, and the significance of the places that often go unnoticed,” she remarked.
Founded in 1814, the Athenaeum is dedicated to providing access to knowledge and special collections and facilitating intellectual discussions. Although the summer lineup is lighter, the organization will increase its offerings in the fall, partnering with the Preservation Alliance to host additional speakers each month.
The lecture is free for Athenaeum members and $20 for nonmembers, with further details available on the event’s webpage.
Snyder’s upcoming talk promises to shed light on the intricate relationship between urban development and the preservation of the memory of those who have passed, a topic that remains essential in understanding Philadelphia’s historical landscape.
image source from：whyy
