This program will combine early Phoenix history with stories of those laid to rest in the Pioneer and Military Memorial Park cemetery in Phoenix. Archivist Jennifer Shaffer Merry and Pioneers' Cemetery Association Historian Ed Dobbins will share some of the work PCA is doing to keep the stories of Phoenix history alive.

The Mission of the Pioneers' Cemetery Association, Inc. is to conserve and protect the historic physical remains, grave markers, artifacts, and buildings of Pioneer & Military Memorial Park and provide a safe, accessible community resource for present and future generations. 

Burton Barr Central Library, Pulliam Auditorium, 1st floor.

About the Presenters:

Jennifer Shaffer Merry is an Archivist at the Arizona Historical Society. She chairs the Arizona chapter of the Association for Gravestone Studies and sits on boards for several local museums, genealogy, and lineage societies. She speaks on cemetery preservation, symbolism, and law reform, incorporating these and the GPS (Genealogical Proof Standard) in the Genealogy Research Methods practicum she teaches for ASU’s History Master’s Program. 

Ed Dobbins is a Phoenix history researcher with primary interests in pre-WWII development of Sunnyslope and the establishment and growth of 19th century Phoenix, including the origins of its pioneer cemeteries. Ed makes his research findings available to local Phoenix history enthusiasts through public events, recorded media, and published writings. He is currently a volunteer at Pioneer & Military Memorial Park in Phoenix.

Do you require an accommodation to participate in a Phoenix Public Library program, service, or activity? Call 602-262-4636, TTY 711, or submit your request in person or through Ask Us at least 14 business days before the event. 

¿Necesita alguna adaptación para participar en algún programa, servicio o actividad de Phoenix Public Library? Llame al 602-262-4636, a la línea TTY al 711 o presente una solicitud en persona o por medio de Ask Us por lo menos 14 días hábiles antes del evento.