Education

The cemetery complex in Roslyn consists of 27 separate burial sites representing ethnic and fraternal organizations that embody the history of those who lived, worked, and were buried here.   It is a goal of the Roslyn Cemetery Legacy Association to preserve and share the rich history of those interred in these cemeteries.

Education to Foster Continued Interest and Support

The historical record of those interred in the Roslyn Cemeteries through the use of the “digital storyteller” is much more than a listing of names and dates.  The photographs and stories enrich the basic information presented there, and provide the foundation for a deeper understanding of the history of this culturally significant community.

Opportunities to ensure continued interest and support for this cemetery complex are provided through a variety of educational avenues.  These include educational programs in Upper Kittitas County Public Schools, collaboration with historical programs at Central Washington University, as well as tours and presentations to interested community groups.

Educational and Outreach Opportunities

Collaboration is a key to the success of educational programs that support and enhance interest in and knowledge of, the Roslyn cemeteries.  The Cle Elum-Roslyn School District has utilized elements of the Online Learning Units developed by the Roslyn Cemetery Beneficial Association in conjunction with the University of Washington.  These units focus on the rich history of the Roslyn area, the immigrants that settled here, and the challenges they faced.  The Roslyn cemeteries are the thread that ties these units together, and the “digital storyteller” is used in support of these units, to expand the students’ understanding of a time and people who made a difference in our area.

The Roslyn Cemetery Legacy 

Association also provides an opportunity for students and professors at Central Washington University to support our work through research and on-site investigations, often using ground penetrating radar (GPR) to assist in their studies.

Cultural events such as Croatiafest and Festa Italiana, both held in Seattle, Washington, provide occasions for members of the Roslyn Cemetery Legacy Association to present the work done thus far, to spread the word of the incredible richness found in the Roslyn cemeteries, and make connections with those who have family members interred there.

Cemetery tours are made available, upon request and on special occasions, by members of the Roslyn Cemetery Legacy Association. Presentations to local service organizations, such as Rotary International, are also provided.  All of these efforts are made with the goal of educating and informing, as a key to fostering and sustaining interest in the Roslyn cemeteries.