I would like to share with readers my reply to Steve Miller’s letter to the editor in the April 18 issue of the Press:
Dear Mr. Miller,
On behalf of the Town of Harvard, I thank you and the Boston Area Shaker Study Group for your continuing interest in the preservation of the Harvard Shaker cemetery.
There is some confusion regarding this project that I would like to clarify, and I appreciate the opportunity to bring this issue into a more public light.
Though an early approach to preserving the historic cast-iron grave markers considered sandblasting and powder coating, we are currently on the process and are researching what the best approach would be. I agree that sandblasting with silica is likely too aggressive a treatment, but that is no longer currently an option we are leaning toward.
As you suggest, our first step is to get the advice of a skilled antique metals conservator. The Harvard Historical Commission has formed a committee devoted to this process, and we are currently in a research phase, trying to get the best-quality advice we can.
Please be assured that we treasure these Shaker artifacts greatly and will do everything we can to ensure their appropriate preservation. We will act slowly and carefully.
This will be a multifaceted process, involving careful documentation, grant writing, and project management. Anyone interested in assisting this effort can contact me at jfeist@charter.net or 978-772-4864.
Additionally, if anyone knows the whereabouts of any missing grave markers, I would similarly appreciate being contacted.
Jonathan Feist, chairman
Harvard Historical Commission
