[MassHistPres] Municipal Ownership of Abandoned Cemeteries/Graveyards

[Zunino, Kim]

There has been an ongoing issue in the area concerning abandoned cemeteries and what town or city should take responsibility. These cemeteries were part of a land annexation that occurred in 1874 and 1906 from two surrounding towns to the city. Concerned citizens are trying to preserve these historic resources, but cannot get a straight answer as to who is responsible for the care/ownership of the cemetery. The cemeteries were family plots that date from the late 17th century to the late 19th century, and contain the founding families of the two towns. The cemeteries are considered abandoned property. Both the city and the towns point fingers at each other as to who should assist in maintaining them or take official ownership. The graveyards are in danger of losing precious gravestones due to vandalism and neglect, and while there are willing volunteers to help the issue of official ownership is important for various reasons. They are not part of a Historic District. 
Has anyone dealt with the issue of a historic cemetery or graveyard that has historic ties to one community but is now part of another community because of land annexation? 
Kim Zunino 
Assistant Administrator 
Lowell Historic Board 
JFK Civic Center 
50 Arcand Drive 
Lowell, MA 01852 
phone (978) 446-7200 x1444 
fax (978) 970-4262 
kzunino at lowellma.gov