Radar finds Jewish graves in Goulburn
Records show that thirty people were buried between 1844 and 1943 at the Goulburn Jewish Cemetery, but only eleven remain today as being marked by headstones and some broken masonry.
Goulburn Jewish Cemetery
Ahead of restoration work at the cemetery, a survey of the land was made using ground penetrating radar, which located a number of unmarked graves.
The survey showed that a cottage built on the site was much bigger than thought.
Every Jewish cemetery had a cottage which housed a caretaker and a room to carry out tahara, the preparation of a Jewish body for burial.
The AUstralia Jewish Historical Society became involved .
Gary Luke told J-Wire: “The survey showed there may be a further 17 persons buried in the site. The radar also found what appears to broken headstones not far under the surface. We will need to get an archaeological licence to investigate further.
On November 6, a demonstration of the ground penetrating radar equipment and experts will explain how the discoveries were made.
The cemetery is at 118 Long St, Goulburn, opposite 109 Long St. Enter Long St via Common St and Cheswick St.
For further information or tax deductible donations to assist restoration – goulburntrust@ajhs.com.au
Thanks for posting this story – my wife and i visit the Yass Cemetery where her ancestor Moses Moses is buried.