Gradual integration of specific guidelines and interventions based on the balance between values, use, and economy are the best means to achieve the preservation goals.

Recommendations

Any attempt at preserving an object, building, or site invariably causes a disruption in the natural life cycle of the subject. St Louis 1 Cemetery is a living, dynamic place with many historical uses, meanings, and appearances that must be understood to be stewarded properly. The cemetery should be encouraged to continue in its historical roles as an active place of burial and family visitation, as well as a tourist destination and a place for contemplation. Future changes to facilitate these uses, and to conserve the physical fabric, should be planned and managed to preserve and enhance the character of the site.

St. Louis 1 Cemetery was not originally intended to be viewed as a collection of decayed tombs. However, over time, the cemetery, like many such sites, has become defined by, and admired for, its picturesque decay. Indeed, much of its past and current appeal is tied to this aspect of age. Decay and age are essential components of the site. However, these components must be counteracted by sensitive and timely repair and maintenance.

During this project, appropriate maintenance, repair and restoration methods have been tested and implemented on pilot tombs and on the tombs of Alley 9-L St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Guidelines for Preservation & Restoration has been prepared and can be downloaded from this site. We recommend repair techniques and cycles that are maintainable and sympathetic with the existing materials. In addition, we believe that some level of aesthetic restrictions should be placed on this site, just as is often appropriate for significant historic districts, to attempt to prevent jarring changes, and to ensure long-term sustainability of this fragile cultural landscape.

Two material changes in the past thirty years highlight the aesthetic issues; the substitution of blue granite as a closure tablet for white marble and the liberal use of concrete for roofs and pavements and full replacement of tombs of historic value.