Eastern Kentucky University
Forensics Serving the Community
Institution
Eastern Kentucky University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Barbara Wheeler
Abstract
Elmwood is a 9,000 square foot chateau-style mansion located on approximately 20 acres directly across from the main campus of Eastern Kentucky University. Upon her death, the will stated that the previous owner, Emma Watts, wanted her Elmwood estate to be preserved just as it was when she lived there and she provided for this by setting up a trust fund. The home and land was maintained until 2011, when after 41 years, the trustees transferred ownership to EKU. Agreeing to honor Emma’s wishes, EKU is working towards preserving the estate through a complete restoration. One aspect of this project is the complete documentation of the estate in its current condition. Techniques commonly used by a forensic scientist are being performed to document and “preserve” materials found in the estate and its furnishings. Over 500 samples have been collected from the house and furnishings without leaving visible damage. A summary of this on-going community service project will be detailed during the presentation.
Forensics Serving the Community
Elmwood is a 9,000 square foot chateau-style mansion located on approximately 20 acres directly across from the main campus of Eastern Kentucky University. Upon her death, the will stated that the previous owner, Emma Watts, wanted her Elmwood estate to be preserved just as it was when she lived there and she provided for this by setting up a trust fund. The home and land was maintained until 2011, when after 41 years, the trustees transferred ownership to EKU. Agreeing to honor Emma’s wishes, EKU is working towards preserving the estate through a complete restoration. One aspect of this project is the complete documentation of the estate in its current condition. Techniques commonly used by a forensic scientist are being performed to document and “preserve” materials found in the estate and its furnishings. Over 500 samples have been collected from the house and furnishings without leaving visible damage. A summary of this on-going community service project will be detailed during the presentation.