Procedures for Court-Ordered Removal of Human
Skeletal Remains Under the General Supervision of the Division of
Archaeology
- Forms: All burials need to be documented on a standardized
burial form. These forms are available from the Division of Archaeology.
- Photography:
- a) All burial locations should be photographed with black/white film
and color slide film before any human remains are exposed. All burials
should be clearly labeled on a menu board (or similar device) as to site
number, burial number, and date. Additional information may be included
as deemed necessary. A north arrow must be used in the photograph.
- b> Once human remains are exposed, the condition of the remains
should be documented with black/white film and color slide film before
any remains are removed (even if the remains are severely disturbed). As
before, all burials should be clearly labeled on a menu board (or similar
device) as to site number, burial number, and date. Additional
information may be included as deemed necessary. A north arrow must be
used in the photograph.
- c> After the remains have been removed, the empty stone box, pit, tomb,
etc. should be clearly documented with black/white film and color slide
film. As before, all burials should be clearly labeled on a menu board
(or similar device) as to site number, burial number, and date.
Additional information may be included as deemed necessary. A north
arrow must be used in the photograph.
- Mapping:
- a> Each burial that contains undisturbed skeletal remains must have
a scale drawing. This drawing must include a north arrow, scale, site
number, burial number, date, and name of recorder.
-
b) The location of all burials must be mapped on a site plan that is
tied to a permanent datum.
- Removal:
- a> Use of a backhoe to remove overburden must be done with a smooth
or toothless bucket. The buck should be at least three (3) feet wide.
- b> All attempts must be made to remove the skeletal remains as
intact as possible. This improves the laboratory analysis and also
reflects due care and decency for the individual being removed.
- Delivery to the Division of Archaeology:
- a> All remains must be washed prior to delivery to the Division.
- b> All burial associations, field notes, records, maps, and
photographs must be delivered to the Division along with the skeletal
remains. If necessary, these materials may be delivered to the Division
after the completion of the project report.
November 7, 1995