Simcoe, Joshua, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Susquehanna University, 514 University Ave, Selinsgrove, PA, 17870, simcoej@susqu.edu; Aguirre, Jasmine, F, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Susquehanna University, 514 University Ave, Selinsgrove, PA, 17870, aguirrej@susqu.edu; Lachhab, Ahmed, Earth & Environmental Sciences Susquehanna University 514 University Ave Selinsgrove PA, 17870, lachhab@susqu.edu.
This project highlights the importance of integrating geophysical methods into heritage management to protect and commemorate the early settlers and veterans of Watsontown, Pennsylvania, without disturbing protected burial grounds. A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey was conducted at the historic Warrior Run Church Cemetery, established in 1767 and containing over 600 burials of early settlers and military veterans. As the cemetery is legally designated a no-dig site, GPR was employed as a non-invasive alternative to excavation to identify unmarked graves, including the possible burial site of Col. Matthew Smith, a Revolutionary War figure.
Using a 400 MHz antenna, four separate GPR surveys were conducted, each employing a grid composed of transect lines oriented in both north–south and east–west directions, spaced at 0.5 m intervals. A dielectric constant of 6 was applied to account for the dry soil conditions present during the July surveys, while surface depressions and topographic variations were recorded as indicators of potential subsurface disturbance. Fourteen anomalies were identified, several displaying hyperbolic reflections and spatial patterns consistent with historic graves. Sites 1 and 2, located in the northeastern section where historical records suggest Col. Smith may be buried, exhibited the strongest grave-like reflections.
Although the specific burial site of Col. Smith could not be confirmed without excavation, the results provide compelling evidence of multiple unmarked graves, reflecting a loss of burial records over time. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of GPR as a non-destructive tool for investigating historic cemeteries and supports the mission of the Warrior Run Fort Freeland Heritage Society to preserve Pennsylvania’s early heritage.
Heritage Management , Unmarked Graves , Historical Preservation , Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)