In a concerted effort to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes, a team of dedicated individuals and organizations have come together to install crucial signage and provide essential support for the sacred site. Led by renowned architects Joseph Kunkel, Mayrah Udvardi, Prescott Trudeau, and Hisa Ota from MASS Design Group, along with project contractors Ismael Lara and Ariel Lara, the endeavor marks a significant milestone in safeguarding the cultural legacy of the Lipan Apache community.
The project, which took place at Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes, focused on the installation of location, wayfinding, and interpretive signage. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the interpretive signage was fabricated at MAKE Santa Fe and authored by Dr. Nakaya Flotte. These signs delve into various aspects of the site’s history, shedding light on topics such as life and death in Lipan Apache culture, the significance of caretaking sacred sites, Indigenous design principles, repatriation, and reburial.
Gratitude flows towards the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for their unwavering generosity and support in protecting this sacred space. Additionally, the project received substantial backing from a multitude of sources, including individual donors who contributed to the “Protect the Camposanto” campaign on GoFundMe. Grants awarded by esteemed organizations such as the American Electric Power Foundation, Amerigroup, Cibolo Creek Ranch, City of Presidio, Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation, Horizon Foundation, National Trust for Historic Preservation, Presidio Municipal Development District, Texas Historical Foundation, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Still Water Foundation, and Summerlee Foundation have also played a pivotal role in advancing the cause.
Through collaborative efforts and community support, Cementerio del Barrio de los Lipanes stands as a testament to the importance of preserving cultural heritage and honoring the legacy of Indigenous communities. As the project continues to unfold, it serves as a beacon of hope for the preservation of sacred sites and the promotion of cultural understanding and appreciation.
Images by Big Bend Conservation Alliance
