...

Engineering Support for Historic Archway at Barton Memorial Park Cemetery – Preserving Culture Through Design

At Oasis Engineering, we take pride in providing engineering that does more than just meet code — we support projects that carry meaning, serve communities, and help preserve local history. One recent example is our work on the new entrance archway at Barton Memorial Park Cemetery in Boynton Beach, Florida.

Barton Memorial Park Cemetery Archway
Barton Memorial Park Cemetery Archway

A Project with Purpose

Barton Memorial Park Cemetery isn’t just a resting place — it’s a historic landmark. Once known as Cherry Hill, this cemetery is believed to be Boynton Beach’s first African-American burial ground, dating back to the early 1900s. Many of the people buried there were of Bahamian descent and among the city’s early pioneers. For years, the cemetery was neglected, especially during the construction of I-95 in the 1970s, but through community efforts and city recognition, it has since been restored and protected as part of the Boynton Beach Heritage Trail.

When a new steel archway was proposed to honor the site’s history and create a welcoming entrance for visitors, we were honored to be part of the team that made it possible.

Our Role: Structural Support for a Cultural Landmark

We were brought into the project to provide structural engineering consulting and help ensure that this new feature would be safe, durable, and built to last. Our team delivered a comprehensive engineering package that included:

  • Wind load engineering and certification: We analyzed site-specific wind conditions and issued a sealed letter from a licensed Florida engineer, verifying that the archway met applicable building code requirements.
  • Structural drawings: We created detailed plans showing the foundation layout, anchor connections, and welded joints needed to support the archway’s unique steel design.
  • Construction notes and compliance guidance: Because this is a public-facing project located near walkways and gravesites, we also included notes and recommendations covering:
    • Safe pedestrian access and traffic management during construction (MOT)
    • ADA coordination where required
    • Utility clearance and protection of nearby burial sites during excavation
    • Maintenance and inspections to ensure long-term integrity

More Than Metal and Concrete

Yes — this project involved structural math, load paths, and code references. But more than that, it was about preserving legacy and creating something beautiful and respectful for the community.

We believe that engineering should not only be functional — it should serve people. And when it’s done right, it helps elevate public spaces, honor stories, and protect the future by building on the past.


Need structural engineering for your public art or monument project?
We’d love to support your vision. Visit our Public Art & Monument Engineering page or contact us to learn more.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *