Preserving Wayland and Sudbury's First Burial Ground

Cemeteries make for interesting conversation. And in case you were unaware, October is Massachusetts Archaeology Month.

The Wayland Historical Commission and the Wayland Historical Society are co-sponsoring this year’s annual archaeology event on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 2 p.m. “Wayland’s First Burial Ground-Your CPA Money at Work” will be presented at the North Cemetery, Route 27, Old Sudbury Road, Wayland.

Historical archaeologist Barbara Donohue, a specialist in preservation of Old Burial Ground, was hired by the town to prepare a preservation management plan for North Cemetery, which is the first Town Center of Sudbury Plantation and the first burying ground for Sudbury and Wayland.

Donohue, at the event, will discuss the plan, her research, and this fragile historic property, said the announcement. She also explains how the Old Burial Ground changed and expanded from its original configuration in the 17th century to its current size and configuration, following trends and attitudes towards death and cemeteries, what her research uncovered about the possible location of the 1643 Meeting House, and whether or not the traditional location of the Indian Graves was authenticated during this study. Donohue also explains how Wayland citizens can help to preserve this valuable historical resource.

Participants are urged to bring a folding chair if they wish to be seated during the program.