I literally grew up in cemeteries. I was taught at a very young age to respect them, and to visit my ancestors regularly. I've always felt a sense of great peace strolling the grounds, reading the names & dates of those no longer with us, & trying to imagine who they were and how they lived.

Moving to Florida from way up North was an eye opener for me. Most small, rural cemeteries were protected up there. Local people, whether they had kin there or not, would care for them, and keep them tended. To see so many down here abandoned, vandalized, neglected,fogotten and in some cases, obliterated, was appalling.

I decided to do what I can to protect, doccument, & preserve what I can. I'm glad there are many out there who feel the same as me. No one deserves to be forever lost and forgotten.

I also have a great interest in African American Burial Grounds, after learning I have an unidentified one just a couple hundred yards from my home.

I'm currently located in Lake County Florida, but I cover Seminole, Orange, Volusia and sometimes Brevard.

I also travel to South Ontario (Greater Toronto to Ft. Erie (US Border), and as far west as Windsor), several times a year. I travel to Western PA, as far east as Johnstown, several times a year as well. If I can assist anyone needing info/pics or mapping in these areas, let me know.

I usually visit Central Fla cemeteries after work, or on weekends. I drive an antique, silver Porsche, so if you see me, say hi. I love to meet others interested in preserving our historic cemeteries.

Joe