Lampeter Graveyard Survey

Students assist genealogists.

Students from the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Wales Lampeter have completed a comprehensive survey of the standing gravestones in St. Peter's churchyard, Lampeter.

The archive of over 3,000 individuals whose inscriptions are recorded on the tombstones was compiled during the summer months by the Department's second year students as part of their fieldwork activities. Representatives of the second year student team officially handed over the project archive to the Rev John Mathews, Curate of Lampeter and Llanddewi Brefi Group; a copy has also been given to Gareth Hicks of Genuki, the national Genealogy group, thereby helping to fill gaps in the current national record.

Rev John Mathews thanked the students for a very useful aid for helping and facilitating the numerous enquiries the church receives regarding the graveyard. The archive takes the form of five bound volumes and an accompanying CD, that allows for individual searches; a particularly useful tool for people tracing family histories or looking for specific grave sites. The archive will also be updated in the near future with accompanying location plans, monument condition and iconographic details.

The range of evidence gathered during the survey has allowed for a greater understanding in the subtle changes in commemoration and bereavement over time, as well as broader fashions in the style and diversity of monuments.

The cemetery has several monuments dating to the 18th century, predating the current church, as well as a remarkable 19th century pauper section. Also there are some gravestones that provide surprising insights into the past, for example a 19th century gravestone that has a mason’s trial alphabet inscription on its rear face.

A project of this kind not only allows for present day and future generations to find out more about Lampeter's past, but also gives the students a valuable opportunity to be more aware and involved in the wider community in which they stay.  Many students have said how honoured they are, that through their work they are able to give something back to the town.

An abridged version of the archive is available Here.

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