Minn. Archaeologist Investigates Vanished Cemetery

HERMAN, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota's state archaeologist is investigating the disappearance of a pioneer cemetery near Herman.

Scott Anfinson says he used Department of Natural Resources aerial photos and satellite mapping to confirm that the Boerner family cemetery was gone.

Anfinson tells KFGO-AM he drove by the site recently and clearly could see the changes.

Anfinson was notified not long after the cemetery's disappearance was reported to the Grant County sheriff.

The sheriff was called after members of the family discovered that trees had been cleared and tombstones moved.

Sheriff Dwight Walvatne says there's no indication that the graves themselves were disturbed.

Anfinson says there is a public record of the cemetery, which dates to the late 1800s. He says he'll likely return in the spring to help restore the cemetery.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)