Potter's Field

January 7, 2025 - Dr. Jamie Noerpel, Director, writer, and passionate local historian, presented to York East Rotary Club on the fascinating and often overlooked history of Potter’s Field in York, Pennsylvania. Speaking at the club’s weekly meeting, Dr. Noerpel delved into the practices of burying the poor, the rich history behind gravestones, and her work with Project Penny Heaven. Potter’s Field, a burial ground traditionally used for indigent individuals who could not afford private plots, holds stories of York’s past that are as compelling as they are poignant. Dr. Noerpel explained how these fields, often associated with stigma, are a significant part of local and social history. Among the stories Dr. Noerpel highlighted was that of a man known only as “Joseph,” whose detailed wooden marker tells a tale of resilience amid hardship. Another story involved a mother and her young child, whose intertwined graves speak to the close bonds of family even in death. Dr. Noerpel also brought attention to the artistry and evolution of gravestones in York. She described how early markers were often made of simple wood or slate, while later stones displayed intricate carvings and epitaphs that revealed details about the deceased's lives.“Gravestones are more than mere markers,” Dr. Noerpel noted. “They’re storytellers, offering glimpses into the lives, beliefs, and values of those who came before us.”

As the Director of Project Penny Heaven, Dr. Noerpel has dedicated her time to restoring dignity to the neglected burial sites in Potter’s Field. The initiative aims to identify and document graves, preserve existing markers, and educate the public about the importance of honoring all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status in life. The project’s name, “Penny Heaven,” comes from the symbolic tradition of leaving coins on gravestones as a mark of respect. Dr. Noerpel emphasized the importance of preserving these burial grounds, not only for historical purposes but also as a way to acknowledge the humanity of those interred there. Dr. Noerpel encouraged attendees to participate in Project Penny Heaven by volunteering for clean-up efforts, helping with research, or simply visiting the site to reflect on the lives of those buried there.