This series focuses on the Gravestone Project that was conducted from 1982-1986, which was designed to introduce undergraduate students to archaeological research by studying gravestones from Broome County in upstate New York. The series showcases both Randall H. McGuire's teaching methods at Binghamton University and his own research and writing about cemeteries and gravestones. Files include book outlines of both "Living with the Dead" and "Molded in Stone," "Living With The Dead" book drafts, correspondence with publishers, syllabi that include explanations of the Cemetery Research Project, student papers, research notes, data sheets from cemeteries and mausoleums, and photographs of the cemeteries and gravestones.

McGuire’s work on gravestones will be of interest to researchers looking at types of gravestones, catholic and protestant burial traditions, and how career and family affect gravestone styles. However, there is very little information for researchers interested in genealogy and specific family names, since McGuire focused on major trends rather than the history of individual families.