Sacred Grounds: A Risk Assessment Framework Developed for Historic African American Cemeteries Threatened by Sea Level Rise in Georgetown, SC

ABSTRACT This study acknowledges historic African American cemeteries as vital cultural and historical landmarks that preserve the stories and traditions of often overlooked communities. However, coastal cemeteries, particularly in Georgetown, South Carolina, face increasing environmental threats. These burial sites risk severe damage or complete loss as climate change accelerates from sea level rise, flooding, storm surges, neglect, development pressure, and land development. This research develops and considers a risk assessment framework to address the risks of cemeteries proximity to water, elevation, flood risk, and cultural significance. The research employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping, historical records, and site analysis to determine which cemeteries in Georgetown, SC face the highest threats as a test case of the risk framework. The findings reveal that the most significant threats were flooding and storm surges. Cemeteries located near bodies of water and at low elevations exhibit the highest vulnerability. The findings also reveal proximity to water was not always the deciding factor for cemeteries that scored high. Many of these cemeteries exist on historic plantations in low-lying areas, making them especially vulnerable. In contrast, cemeteries situated on higher ground, particularly those affiliated with churches, show greater resilience to environmental threats. This research emphasizes the urgent need for improved preservation planning, and stronger legal protection, to safeguard these sacred sites. This study provides a model for assessing the risk of vulnerable cemeteries in Georgetown, SC and other coastal communities by developing a risk assessment framework that integrates environmental data with cultural heritage considerations.