Iowa has almost 5,000 cemeteries. Some are large, active, and well-visited. Others are found in the backs of cornfields, in pastures, or at the end of dead-end roads and haven’t had a burial in 100 years.
The State Association for the Preservation of Iowa Cemeteries (SAPIC) seeks to preserve cemeteries in the state of Iowa, large and small, by awarding grants to cemetery commissions and individuals who need help in restoring cemeteries in their communities.
The Patricia Shaw Memorial Grants of up to $500 each will be awarded in two categories: workshops, where a host may apply to hold a day of training on best practices in preservation; and in preservation work itself, where money may be used for repair of gravestones and related physical cemetery improvement such as brush removal, signage, fencing, survey etc. Priority will be given to individuals, groups, or organizations that are in the process of restoring neglected cemeteries in the state. The application deadline is March 1, 2024.
Patricia Shaw was a Birmingham, IA, resident who was actively involved in SAPIC, county and state history, and genealogy.
Persons who want more information can contact Mary Richards at mrichards@netins.net. To apply, find the application link on SAPIC’s website: www.sapiciowa.org.
