KENT COUNTY, Del.- About 30 headstones and the protective wall surrounding them were wrecked after a car lost control and crashed into Barratt's Chapel Cemetery.
According to Delaware State Police, the unfortunate event occurred on December 13, 2023, around 3:19 p.m. A 26-year-old man from Dover was driving a Toyota near the cemetery when another car abruptly shifted from an exit ramp to the left lane.
This sudden lane change led the Toyota to veer off-road, hit a ditch, become airborne, cross over to the opposite side, and collide with the brick wall and several headstones.
While no injuries were reported, Philip Lawton with Barratt's Chapel and Museum said the cost of repairs could be daunting.
"Unfortunately, the driver was un-insured," Lawton said. "We haven't had our insurance agency here yet to find out what they are going to pay us but I suspect the cost is going to be more than what they will cover."
The challenge extends beyond costs; the historic significance of the wall, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, requires meticulous reconstruction.
"The wall dates from the 19th century but some of the bricks are from the 18th century," Lawton explained. "We can't just put up a metal fence there or something it has to be reconstructed with someone who knows what they are doing."
The museum and wall are separate from the cemetery itself which is managed by a board of trustees.
Board President, James Frazier said the oldest headstones were located where the crash occurred. Some were placed there in the 1700's.
It's important to note that the museum and the wall are distinct from the cemetery, managed by a separate board of trustees. James Frazier, the Board President, highlighted that the crash primarily affected the oldest headstones, some of which trace back to the 1700s.
Plans are underway to identify and repair the damaged headstones, but the process is expected to take several months.
Delaware State Police issued a citation to the involved driver for lacking a valid license or insurance. The other driver, deemed responsible for the accident, fled the scene.
Lawton added that any contributions to help repair the damage would be greatly appreciated and can be sent to P.O. Box 668, Frederica, Del. 19946.
