cemeteries

Jeff Poree, 74, a fifth-generation master plasterer, has tackled nearly every obstacle possible within his field. But last fall, in Square 3 of St. Louis No. 2 Cemetery, he faced a novel challenge: the restoration of a free-standing tomb, towering five vaults high by three wide, that was on the verge of collapse because a tree was growing within it.

Saving St. Louis No. 2 Cemetery from cars and longtime neglect

Though an SUV caused a recent injury to the historic burial ground, a preservationist found that the biggest risks to public safety in the cemetery came from some of its most magnificent structures: tombs built for now-dissolved society groups. Now, a five-generation master plasterer is determined to repair them.

The Revilletown cemetery in Plaquemine, Louisiana, on September 6, 2023. The cemetery lies right next to a chemical plant owned by Westlake Corporation.

Local News

Place, Erased: The fight for the remains of a Louisiana town

Drew Hawkins

Toxic pollution forced a small, Black community in Louisiana to relocate. Now, chemical companies say they own its final remnant — the town’s cemetery.

Culture

Neglected Louisiana Graveyards Face Continued Disrepair

Baton Rouge's historic cemeteries are part of the backdrop of everyday life here. You probably drive past them on your way home from work or see the…