Tablet style gravestones set into slotted bases are a common type of historic gravestone. These bases were made from a variety of quarried stone. The bases are usually rectangular in shape with a hand chiseled slot into which the tablet is set into. The inscribed grave marker was then mortared into place, plumb and level with a lime mortar. Over time, the mortar. deteriorates, allowing movement of the tablet. The movement increases the likelihood of future damage. To reset slotted base style gravestones, any material left in the slot is removed, and any necessary repairs are performed to the base. This base is often hoisted and a proper foundation of gravel and sand is compacted to allow the base to sit level and plumb. Any necessary repairs are performed to the tablet, and it is reset level and plumb in a bed of lime mortar. This softer mortar can serve as a sacrificial material to minimize damage to the tablet if contact is made via fallen trees, people and or machines.
