Preparing the next generation of stonemasons

Maintaining large memorials and more than a million headstones around the world requires expertise. Despite all the new technology available nowadays, we still rely on highly skilled disciplines, such as stonemasonry.

In Belgium we have a programme to nurture our current workforce, as well as new starters into craftsmen.

Today we have a conservation-led approach. This means fixing, rather than replacing, whenever possible.

It’s not just headstones that require maintenance. Our common cemetery features also include the Stone of Remembrance, Cross of Sacrifice, boundary walls, entrance features and shelter buildings.

Each one has its own characteristics and needs specific tools and training to repair the effects of natural erosion.

We begin training with headstone re-engraving and small stone inserts – also known as ‘fleurs’ – which are cut to shape to replace damaged areas. This allows us to patch in stone wherever possible rather than having to replace entire blocks.

Trainees must learn to perfectly cut the insert to fill the gap. It’s then held in place with lime mortar.

Learning to do this takes time, and when it’s done well at first glance visitors may not even notice the repair.

Following internal exams staff can slowly work their way up from this type of work, to preserving some of the more intricate features found in our cemeteries.

It can take up to 15 years for those who wish to progress the whole way through.

The purpose of all this is to ensure that the unique historical heritage of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission is properly conserved, so that those who gave their lives will have a worthy resting place in perpetuity.