Field Work
A body of work shaped by curiosity, small towns, and the people and places encountered along the way..
Photography
Photography serves as the foundation of this work, capturing historic places and the traces left behind. Often referred to as “Proof of Life,” these images reveal the everyday details that tell the stories of those who came before.
Over the past decade, more than 1,000 sites across 19 states have been documented through multiple trips across the country, photographing ghost towns and forgotten communities along the way. Many of these places have since been demolished, burned, or lost to time, underscoring the importance of documenting these places before they disappear.
Genealogy
Genealogy extends beyond researching the histories of old homes and the families who once lived in them. Through years of historical research, connections emerge, revealing how place, lineage, and lived experience shape identity across generations.
Serving as a volunteer genealogist for a World War II veteran brought this work into sharper focus, transforming research into something deeply personal. Through uncovering his family history, the deeper impact of genealogy became clear, showing how understanding the past can bring healing, restore connections, and help address generational trauma.
Today, genealogy remains a central part of the work, connecting people to their roots while preserving stories that might otherwise be lost. This research not only informs the documentation of historic places, but also shapes a growing focus on sharing how family history can help individuals better understand where they come from and move forward with greater clarity.
Preservation
Preservation focuses on protecting historic grave markers and the stories they carry. Through careful, hands-on cemetery work, stones are cleaned, documented, and made legible again for future generations.
Ongoing education remains an important part of this effort. By both attending and helping lead preservation workshops, methods stay aligned with National Park Service guidelines, ensuring cleaning is done safely, respectfully, and without causing damage to historic materials.
Preservation services are offered through Grave Conditions, providing professional headstone and cemetery cleaning for families, churches, and historic sites.
