Pioneer Cemetery’s Lost Graves

San Fernando Valley Historical Society Presents “Pioneer Cemetery’s Lost Graves”

The question of how many burials are actually located at the San Fernando Valley Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in Sylmar will be discussed on Thursday, April 28th when Dr. Brian Damiata will present his findings from an extensive archaeo-geophysical investigation. Unconfirmed cemetery records indicate more than 600 people could be buried at the historic site.

Dr. Damiata, a California state licensed geophysicist and Cotsen Fellow at the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology at UCLA, has extensive experience in applying ground-based geophysical methods to support archaeological and forensic studies that include the locating of unmarked burials and clandestine graves. 

The archaeo-geophysical survey he conducted at Pioneer Cemetery involved land surveying of all visible features within the boundaries of the cemetery using a Global Positioning System (GPS) in conjunction with a robotic total-field station. Geophysical surveys that were conducted included Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), electrical resistivity, and magnetic methods. Most of the accessible areas of the cemetery were surveyed. Additional historical research revealed further details about some of the burials.

 Dr. Damiata’s presentation will be an exciting new chapter in the history of Pioneer Cemetery. Be sure to arrive early for a good seat, and allow time to ask questions.  The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m.  Location is the Andres Pico Adobe Park, 10940 Sepulveda Blvd., Mission Hills.  The program, door prize and light refreshments are FREE.  Donations are accepted and always appreciated!