Louisiana Trust Seeks Help Locating Lost Cemeteries in Avoyelles Parish

The Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation (LTHP) is asking for public assistance in identifying and documenting historic cemeteries across the state — including several in Avoyelles Parish.

Statewide Effort to Preserve Louisiana’s Historic Burial Sites

In October 2024, the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation launched the Louisiana Register of Historic Cemeteries, a public database designed to promote awareness, protection, and preservation of historic burial sites while honoring the memory of those interred.

One year later, nearly 300 historic cemeteries have been officially registered, representing every parish in Louisiana. The online registry includes a visual glossary with hundreds of photographs and interactive story maps highlighting notable individuals and their burial sites.

Community Participation Encouraged

LTHP Executive Director Brian Davis shared that the organization’s next goal is to identify cemeteries that are no longer in use or have been abandoned.

“We’re asking folks to look on the map to see what cemeteries are nearby and share information and photos, especially cemeteries connected with their families,” Davis explained. “Identifying the location of historic cemeteries is important for many reasons — from reuniting families with their relatives to preventing costly change orders when cemeteries are discovered during construction.”

The registry currently lists more than 8,000 burial grounds statewide, though many still lack historical details or documentation. The public is invited to submit nominations online, providing information such as age, size, boundaries, condition, and significance. There is no fee to submit a nomination.

Cemeteries of Interest in Avoyelles Parish

The Louisiana Trust is currently seeking information about the following cemeteries in Avoyelles Parish:

• Cap Garden Cemetery, Bunkie
• Glass Cemetery, unknown location
• Hardy Cemetery, Bunkie
• Voorhies Cemetery, Ruby

Residents are encouraged to explore the interactive map and contribute photos, stories, or historical data by visiting https://www.lthp.org/resources/lrhc/

About the Louisiana Trust

Founded in 1979, the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for, promoting, and preserving historic sites that reflect the state’s diverse cultural heritage.

For more information about the Louisiana Trust, its programs, and membership benefits, visit https://www.lthp.org/