Projects
Cemetery Resource Protection Training (CRPT) Conference 2026
Call for Papers!
The Florida Public Archaeology Network invites submissions for the 2026 Cemetery Resource Protection Training (CRPT) Conference, taking place February 26–27, 2026 at the Historic Monticello Opera House in Monticello, Florida.
This two-day conference will bring together professionals, researchers, community members, and preservation advocates to share knowledge, strategies, and stories focused on the protection and preservation of historic cemeteries. We welcome proposals that showcase both practical experience and academic research.
We are seeking presentations and panel discussions related to a broad range of topics, including but not limited to:
- Local cemetery preservation projects
- Cemetery research and documentation
- Community-based and descendant-led preservation initiatives
- Disaster preparedness and response for historic cemeteries
- Innovative tools and methodologies in cemetery work
- Public engagement and education in cemetery conservation
Please fill out the form below to submit your paper presentation or panel discussion by December 1, 2025 for consideration. All submissions will be reviewed and those that do not comply with professionally accepted ethics or are deemed inappropriate will not be considered. Presentation time slots are limited, and all accepted presenters will be notified via email. The time limit for presentations is 15 minutes, and 45 minutes for panel discussions.
Feel free to share this Call for Papers widely with colleagues, community members, and anyone engaged in cemetery preservation work.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Venue
Cemetery Resource Protection Training Conference
February 26–27, 2026 | Monticello, Florida
Hosted by the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN)Location: The Historic Monticello Opera House, 185 W. Washington Street, Monticello, FL 32344
About the Conference
The Cemetery Resource Protection Training Conference is a two-day event focused on preserving Florida’s historic cemeteries—particularly those from African American and other marginalized communities. Attendees will gain practical skills and knowledge through workshops, networking, and expert-led sessions.
Why Attend?
- Learn how to protect and restore cemeteries in your community
- Connect with state and local leaders, experts, and preservation partners
- Access grant information and other resources for cemetery projects
- Participate in a growing movement to preserve and honor Florida’s cultural heritage
Whether you are just starting or already involved in cemetery work, this conference offers valuable insights and tools you can use right away.
Registration
Registration includes the full 2-day conference, the first day consists of speakers and a catered evening reception and awards ceremony. The second day consists of field activities in a local cemetery. Registration types include:
- Standard Registration: $55.00
- Student: $30.00
- Jefferson County Resident: $30.00
Keynote
We are honored to welcome our keynote speaker, Dr. Antoinette Jackson (USF, Black Cemetery Network)
Dr. Antoinette Jackson is a Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa and Director of the USF Heritage Research Lab. She is also the Founder and Director of The Black Cemetery Network and leads the African American Burial Grounds & Remembering Project, an ongoing USF research study which addresses the erasure of historic black cemeteries in the Tampa Bay area. Her most recent book, Heritage, Tourism, and Race—the Other Side of Leisure was published by Routledge in 2020.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Is your organization interested in becoming a sponsor of the 2026 CRPT conference?
Your support helps:
- Fund educational sessions and materials
- Promote cemetery preservation across Florida
- Provide access to community leaders and students
- Highlight your organization’s commitment to history and heritage
To sponsor or learn more, contact:
Barbara Clark, RPA, MSA
📧 BarbaraAClark@uwf.edu
📞 850-270-7556
Hosted by:
