Tombstone Iconography
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Ab Initio, Ad Finem
Latin for "From the Beginning to the End"
Burials
Acacia or Cassia
Eternal life and resurrection - immortality of the soul.
Burials
Acanthus
In Christianity the thorny leaves represent pain, sin and punishment. Acanthus symbolizes immortality in Mediterranean countries.
Burials
Acorn
Symbol of fertility and life. Also see Oak Leaves.
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Alpha and Omega
The Alpha and the Omega are the first and the last letters of the Greek alphabet - they represent the beginning and the end; the totality.
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Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) Fraternity
ATO was founded after the American civil war in 1865 to help heal wounds created by the war and reunite north and south.
Burials
American Legion
Patriotic organization for American military veterans.
Burials
Anchor
Anchors may signify a mariner, fisherman or a U.S. Navy burial. It is the Christian symbol for hope and steadfastedness.
Burials
Anchor - Cross
Also known as crus dissimulata, it is actually a disguised cross used by early Christians to hide their religion so they would not be persecuted.
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Angels
Angels engraved on tombstones mean spirituality; they guard the tomb and are thought to be messengers between God and man. See also "Cherub"
Burials
Animal Emblem
Animals have strong symbolic meanings, such as Lambs for innocence, Lions for Courage and the Dove for purity and peace.
Burials
Ankh
Ancient Egyptian symbol of life; the universe; all life both human and divine.
Burials
Anthemion
A classical ornament featuring honeysuckle or palmettes with foliage below. Its use is primarily decorative.
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Anvil
An anvil more than likely represents a blacksmith. It may also symbolize the forging of the universe.
Burials
Apple
Fruit of salvation; health and immortality.
Burials
Arch
The arch is symbolic of triumph or victory. Arches symbolize a passageway or door into the unknown (journey to heaven).
Burials
Arrow
The arrow is a symbol of mortality -- a "dart of death." Arrows may also represent a military profession or hunter.
Burials
Artist Palette
A symbol of an artist's palette indicates that the burial is more than likely an artist.
Burials
Balance or Scales
Balance or Fairness. Scales may represent a merchant's trade or the weighing of the soul on Judgement Day.
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Banner
Victory, Triumph, Rejoicing
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Basket
A basket my be simply decorative. A tipped basket represents life's end. A basket of flowers represents nature's blessing.
Burials
Bed
A bed is a denial of death; "She is not dead, but sleepeth"
Burials
Bee
Symbol of industriousness; small actions of an individual benefit the whole. Germans see the erratic flight of the bee as "wandering souls"
Burials
Beehive
Unified, harmonious community. Symbol of Mormonism. Masons considered the beehive to be a symbol of industriousness and productivity.
Burials
Beetle or Scarab
The Scarab Beetle symbolizes renewal and regeneration.
Burials
Bellflower or Bluebell
Constancy and gratitude. Sorrowful Regret.
Burials
Bird - sitting
A sitting bird is guarding the soul
Burials
Birds
Transcendence; symbol of the soul -- flight of the soul after death. See also specific breeds of birds.
Burials
Books
A Holy Bible is often found on Christian stones. A Bible and the Book of Mormon may be found on Mormon stones. Also symbolizes knowledge; education.
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Boot
A boot on a grave probably represents a cowboy of sorts.
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Broken Chain
The soul is freed - removed by death.
Burials
Buoy
A Buoy is generally a symbol of a mariner.
Burials
Butterfly or Moth
Symbolic of resurrection - the caterpillar, the chrysalis, and then the butterfly or moth.
Burials
Caduceus
In modern times the Caduceus symbol is widely used for medicine and healing. Two entwined serpants encircling a staff with wings joined to the staff.
Burials
Calla Lily
Marriage; fidelity; majestic beauty.
Burials
Cannon
A cannon is indicative of military service; when on the base of the stone it may indicate service with the artillery.
Burials
Celtic Knot
The Celtic Knot woven from a single thread symbolizes eternity.
Burials
Centaur
Symbolizes lust, with all the brute violence which can reduce mankind to the level of beasts unless counterbalanced by spritual strength.
Burials
Chain
Three chain links is a symbol of the Order of the Odd Fellows. Links can also be a symbol of living or deceased family members.
Burials
Chair
An empty chair is a symbol of mortality. A small, empty chair may indicate the death of a child.
Burials
Chalice
Symbol of Christian Faith. The Chalice may represent Charity on the "Faith, Hope, Charity" triumvariate.
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Cherub
Cherubs or Baby Angels are most commonly found on the graves of children. See Angels for more information.
Burials
Chrysanthemum
The chrysanthemum symbolizes longevity, immortality, fullness and completeness.
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Circle
Two Circles entwined represent marriage. Anything circular is endless and may represent eternity.
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Civil War
The Civil War was fought in the United States from April of 1861 to May of 1865.
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Clock
A clock is a symbol of mortality. A clock with the hands pointing at 11:00 is associated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elk
Burials
Clouds
Clouds typically represent Heaven.
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Clover
Symbol of the Trinity and a symbol of Ireland.
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Cobra
According to Egyptian mythology, two cobras depicted with the winged sun are said to guard the gates of the underworld.
Burials
Cock or Rooster
The Cock or Rooster is a symbol of the Chinese Zodiac. Roosters symbolize pride, honesty, watchfulness, vigilance and courage.
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Coffin
A coffin engraved on a tombstone is a symbol of mortality.
Burials
Colonial Dames
The National Society of Colonial Dames Seventeenth Century
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Column
Noble life; a broken column represents life cut off and may represent the loss of the Family head.
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Compass
A compass is typically represents a Mason. A compass on a Coat of Arms or Family Crest represents "direction"
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Corn
Corn is a symbol of fertility and rebirth. Corn (maize) represents all the people as well as all the things in the universe for Native Americans.
Burials
Cow
Cow
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Crane
Symbol of vigilance, good works and loyalty. In China, the crane symbolizes longevity and immortality.
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Crest/Coat of Arms
Family Crests/Coat of Arms are sometime found on tombstones with incredible detail.
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Crook (Crosier)
Crosiers or Shephard's Crooks are often associated with Odd Fellows. Carried by or before an abbot, bishop, or archbishop as a symbol of office.
Burials
Cross - Aaronic Order Church
Aaronic Order Church Cross symbol.
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Cross - Bontonee
The Budded Cross. Three lobed ends or Buds, representing the trinity. Also known as Trefoil, Bottony, Botonee.
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Cross - Calvary
A Latin cross on three steps or blocks symbolizing faith, hope and love or charity. Also known as a Graded Cross, Stepped Cross or Altar Cross.
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Cross - Celtic
The Celtic or Irish Cross is a cross within a circle which stands for eternity.
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Cross - Chi Rho (letters X and P) or Labarum
The letters X and P are the Greek letters for Chi Rho, an abbreviation for the word Christ. The Chi Rho Cross is a warrior's cross.
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Cross - Egyptian
Also known as a Coptic Cross, adapted from the Ankh symbol, the symbol of life.
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Cross - Episcopal
Episcopal Cross
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Cross - Fleure-de-lis
The Fleure-de-lis cross is adorned with lily petals at the arm ends. Similar to the Fleurie cross.
Burials
Cross - Fleurie
The Fleurie (Flory, Floretty, Fleuronny) Cross has three lobed ends which represent the Trinity when used as a Christian Cross.
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Cross - Greek
The Greek Cross has four equal arms and is the traditional symbol of Christian faith.
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Cross - Ionic
Similar to the Celtic cross with ends that flair outward signifying everlasting salvation, love and glory.
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Cross - Labarum
See Chi-Rho
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Cross - Latin
The Latin or Christian Cross is the most common form of the cross. The simple design is one of the oldest symbols of Christianity.
Burials
Cross - Lauburu or Basque
The Lauburu or Basque cross was generally used as a symbol of prosperity in heraldry. May mark the tomb of healers of animals and healers of soul.
Burials
Cross - Lily
The Lily Cross is simply a Latin cross decorated with lilies (usually white arum lilies).
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Cross - Lutheran
Lutheran Cross
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Cross - Military
A small white cross marks many U.S. military graves. A cross made of airplane propellers is the "Distinguished Flying Cross"
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Cross - Moline
One of the oldest heraldic variations of the cross. In heraldry the arms of the cross peal off into two curls at the end.
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Cross - Presbyterian
Presbyterian Cross
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Cross - Religious
The Cross is an emblem of faith.
Nice site with crosses.
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Cross - Russian Orthodox
The Russian Orthodox Cross consists of three bars, the lowest bar is slanted.
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Cross - Swastika
The original swastika cross was a symbol of good fortune. Unfortunately, the swastika is now associated with Hitler and evil.
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Cross - United Methodist Church
United Methodist Church Emblem
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Cross with Crown
Christian symbol of sovereignty of the Lord. It is also an emblem used with the Christian Scientist religion and is a symbol of the Knights Templar.
Burials
Crown
Achievement of the soul and glory of life after death. Victory over death. Righteousness.
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CSA
Confederate States Army - Southern side of the Civil War. Many headstones are marked with the Southern Cross of Honor.
Burials
Curtain or Veil
A symbol of passage from one type of existence to another.
Burials
Daffodil/Narcissus
Rebirth and Resurrection; triumph of divine love and sacrifice over vanity, selfishness and death (Legend of Narcissus)
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Daisy
Daisies often indicate a child's grave and represents the innocence of childhood and young people. The Daisy is also a symbol of the Virgin Mary.
Burials
DAR - Daughters American Revolution
NSDAR - National Society Daughters American Revolution. Serves to "perpetuate the memory and spirit of the women and men who achieved America"
Burials
Deaths Head
The Death's Head is a symbol of mortality that is typically depicted with a skull with bones.
Burials
Deid Bell
The Deid Bell is a Scottish symbol generally depicted as a small hand bell which was rung at funerals and to give notice of the funeral.
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Dog - Man
A dog is generally a symbol (on newer tombstones) of a remembered pet.
Burials
Dogwood Flower
Dogwood is a symbol of regeneration, divine sacrifice and triumph of eternal life.
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Dove
The dove is a symbol of resurrection, innocence and peace, love, purity and resurrection. A dove with an olive spring represents peace.
Burials
Dove - Ascending
An ascending dove represents the transport of the soul to heaven.
Burials
Dove - Dead
A Dead Dove represents a prematurely shortened life.
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Dove - Descending
A dove descending represents a descent from Heaven -- an assurance of a passage to heaven.
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Dove - Dive Bombing
A dive-bombing dove with a twig represents the Holy Ghost.
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Dragon
The dragon is a legendary creature with reptilian traits and is one of the most common creatures in heraldry.
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Dragonfly
Immortality, regeneration
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Drapery
Sorrow and mourning.
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Eagle
An eagle with a "32" is a sign of a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. Eagles are sometimes engraved on military graves in the United States.
Burials
Ecclesiastes 12.6-7
Depiction of Ecclesiastes 12.6-7 includes a wheel with a broken cord, a broken pitcher, a shattered bowl and water representing the well or spring.
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Elk
An elk is generally a symbol found on tombstones for members of the Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks. See acronym BPOE.
Burials
Evangelists
The four Evangelists who wrote the gospels Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are generally represented by an angel, winged ox, winged lion and an eagle.
Burials
Evangelists
Matthew: Winged Man, Mark: Winged Lion, Luke: Winged Ox, John: Eagle
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Eye
The Eye is a metaphor for the source of creation - the Eye of God. Eye with a pyramid: Masonic representation of the Great Architect of the Universe
Burials
Eye of Ra
The Eye of Ra represents the right eye of the Egyptian Falcon God Horus and was associated with the Sun God Ra.
Burials
Face with Wings or Winged Soul
Effigy of the soul of the deceased; symbolizes the soul leaving the body at the time of death.
Burials
Faith, Hope, Charity (Book, Anchor and Heart)
A triumvirate of Biblical virtues, Faith, Hope, and Charity. The book is Faith, the anchor Hope, and the hands or heart are Charity.
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Father Time
Father time is generally equipped with a scythe and hour glass reprenting mortality and the passage of time.
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Fawn
A fawn is a symbol of innocence and is generally found on the graves of children.
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Fern
Humility, solitude and sincerity
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Finger Pointing down
Calling the earth to witness. The Deceased has been chosen by God. This person may have had a sudden death from an accident or illness.
Burials
Finger Pointing Left or Right
When the hands are clasped and the index finger of one hand points left or right, it means this person was a member of the Masonic Order.
Burials
Finger Pointing Up
Pathway to heaven, heavenly reward, the soul has risen to Heaven.
Burials
Flag
Generally the American flag, confederate flag or a state flag representing patriotism or military service.
Burials
Flame
Eternal Life or Eternal Vigilance
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Fleur-de-Lis
The three segments symbolize faith, wisdom and valor. The Trinity, passion and love. Used as a symbol of the Boy Scounts of America
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Flower, Bouquet
Life's frailty, brevity of life. A bouquet represents life cut short; grief.
Burials
GAR Symbol - Civil War
The GAR or Grand Army of the Republic symbol was an organization of Union Civil War veterans. Their motto was "Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty."
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Garland
Vicotry in Death. Also see Wreaths and Swags.
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Gate
Open gates symbolize afterlife; the entrance to heaven.
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Grapes
Grapes, or Fruit, generally represent Eternal Plenty or Heavenly Abundance
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Greek Key
The Greek Key, also known as Fret, is an ornamental design consisting of repeated and symmetrical figures contained within a border.
Burials
Green Man
Symbol of oneness with the earth - symbolizes regeneration.
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Gryphon
The Gryphon is a symbol of nobility and guardianship.
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Hand holding a Cross
A hand holding a cross symbolizes resurrection and the eternal life of the soul.
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Hand of God
A hand reaching though the clouds, from Heaven, represents the Hand of God.
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Hand with Heart
The heart represents charity and generosity. Often associated with the Independent Order of the Odd Fellows, if shown with three chain links.
Burials
Hands - General
Hands are sometimes seen on tombstones simply holding things, such as flowers. See also Fingers, hands clasping and hands praying.
Burials
Hands Clasped - Masonic Hand Shake
Hands clasped with one finger pointing down is the masonic handshake.
Burials
Hands Clasping
Two hands joined typically signify union. The sleeves may be both masculine and feminine, indicating marriage. A finger on either hand may be pointing down or up (see Fingers).
Burials
Hands Praying
Asking God for Eternal life; prayer for the soul of the departed. Two hands with spread fingers are Jewish.
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Harp or Lyre
Heavenly Music or Joy. The Harp is a symbol of hope --it may have a broken string. Symbol of Ireland.
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Heart
Symbol of Divine Love and Charity. Two joined hearts symbolize love or marriage. Scottish symbol of the soul.
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Heart with Anchor and Cross
Faith, Hope and Charity.
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Heart with Sword
Catholic symbol known as the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
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Hebrew Symbolism - Here Lies
This sign is found on many Jewish tombstones. It represents the Hebrew words po nikbar or po nitman, meaning "Here Lies"
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Horse
A horse is generally a military symbol for the cavalry. A horse on a Coat of Arms symbolizes readiness for all employments for king and country.
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Hourglass
A reminder of the brevity of life and the passage of time. A flaming hourglass represents eternity. Also see Winged Hourglass.
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HTWSSTKS
Acronym for "Hiram the Widows Son Sent to King Solomon" and is found on a keystone of Royal Arch Masons.
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Hummingbird
Hummingbirds are primarily decorative.
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Iris
In ancient mythology, the Iris was a messenger of the Gods.
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Ivy
Ivy is a symbol of Immortality, Faithfulness and of Memory and Friendship.
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Key
Symbolizes the key to unlock the gates of heaven (St. Peter), or a learned person or a symbol of knowledge of the scriptures.
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Knights Templar
Established in England in the 18th century, the Masonic Templars claim descent from the Medieval Poor Soldiers in Christ.
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Korean War
1950-1953. KVA is a symbol for members of the Korean Veterans of America. KDVA is a symbol for Korean Defense Veterans of America.
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Ladder
Resurrection
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Lamb
The Lamb is a symbol of innocence and is frequently used on the graves of children.
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Lamp
A symbol of Immortality of the Spirit; illuminates the word of God.
Burials
Laurel Branch or Leaves
Laurel represents special achievements, distinction, success, triumph of worldly accomplishment, and heroism.
Burials
Level
The level is a very basic symbol of Freemasonry, as a Mason must pledge to be "on the level" in all his dealings.
Burials
Lily
The Lily is a symbol of innocence and purity. The white lily is used to symbolize the resurrection of Christ and restoration of innocence of the soul.
Burials
Lily of the Valley
Lily of the Valley is for purity and innocence. Return of Happiness.
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Lion
Courage, Majesty and Strength. A winged lion represents St. Mark the Evangelist.
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Lotus
Egyptian symbol of purity, resurrection, evolution, potential. Eloquence.
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Mason
Many Mason tombstones are marked with a compass and square which stand for faith and reason. The letter "G" stands for God or Geometry.
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Mason - Grand Master
Freemasons, uprightness, judgment
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Mason - Royal Arch (HTWSSTKS )
Royal Arch Masons are an organization of York Rite Masons that have at minimum obtained the Master Mason degree. See also HTWSSTKS.
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Mason - Scottish Rite
A series of organizations covering the Masonic degrees from the fourth degree up. The symbol for the 32nd+ degree Mason is a double-headed eagle.
Burials
Mason - Shriners
See Shriners
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Meander
Graphic symbolizing Clouds and Rolling Thunder, both representative of God and his power in the heavens. In one representation, it is the Greek key.
Burials
Menorah
The Menorah, a seven-branched candelabra, is a symbol of divine wisdom and may be found on Jewish markers. It also symbolizes a "righteous" woman
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Mexican War
The Mexican War between the United States and Mexico was fought 1846-1848.
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Military Medals
U.S. Military graves may be marked with medals for distinguished services such as the Air Medal and the Purple Heart.
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Mitre (Headdress worn by a Bishop)
The liturgical headdress and part of the insignia of a Christian bishop. In the Western church it is a tall pointed hat with peaks in front and back, worn at all solemn functions.
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MIZPAH
watch-tower; the look-out
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Moon or Crescent
Eternity; sign of the second coming. See also Masons, shriners. The crescent moon with a star is symbolic of the Muslim religion.
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Moose
A moose may be found on the emblem for the "Loyal Order of the Moose" - a fraternal organization.
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Morning Glory
Beginning of a new life; youth or resurrection.
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Mortar and Pestle
Symbolizes a physician or pharmacist.
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National Guard
The Army National Guard is composed primarily of traditional Guardsmen -- civilians who serve their country, state and community on a part-time basis.
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Niobe
Queen of Thebes
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Oak Tree, Leaves, Acorns
Oak leaves on tombs can stand for strength, endurance, power, authority, longevity or victory.
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Obelisk
Rebirth, connect between Heaven & Earth. An upright four-sided pillar, gradually tapering as it rises and cut off at the top in the form of a pyramid.
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Olive Branch or Twig
The Olive Branch symbolizes peace as well as fruitfulness, strength, and victory.
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Orangemen
Loyal Orange Association of British America (Orangemen)
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Orb or Ball
The Orb is primarily decorative. Three balls together may symbolize money (pawn shop.) Anything circular is endless and may represent eternity.
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Ostensorium or Monstrance
Generally marks the grave of clergy. The device is a vessel of the Eucharist most commonly in the shape of a flower or the sun.
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Ox
A winged ox represents St. Luke the Evangelist.
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Palm
The Palm signifies victory over death and rejoicing.
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Palmetto Tree
The Palmetto tree is on the state flag of South Carolina to represent the defense of the palmetto-log fort during the Revolutionary War.
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Pansy
Think of Me, Thoughts, Remembrance, Humility.
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Papyrus
In Egypt, papyrus was a natural symbol of life itself and the primeval marsh from which all life came. Papyrus pillars were said to hold up the sky.
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Passion Flower
The Passion Flower symbolizes Christ's Passion, Redemption and Crucifixion. "The Passion of Christ"
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Peacock
Immortality through resurrection. Glory, immortality, royalty, incorruptibility, and pride.
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Pine Cone
Ancient symbol for regeneration and fertility; immortality
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Pitcher
A pitcher broken at the fountain is representative of Ecclesiastes 12, verse 6: "Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern."
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Plants and Leaves
Plants and leaves symbolize many things, such as thistle for Scottish descent and remembrance. See specific plant types for more information
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Poppies
Rest, sleep, peace, immortality.
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Quatrefoil
A quatrefoil is composed of four equal lobes, like a four-petaled flower.Used for good luck -- similar to the four-leaf clovers.
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Revolutionary War Loyalist
Tombstone Symbol unknown. Loyalists were sympathetic to the British during the Revolutionary war. Many fled to Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Revolutionary War Patriot
Revolutionary War Patriot graves may be marked by the NSDAR (National Society Daughters of the American Revolution) insignia
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Rocks
Christian symbol for the Lord.
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Rope
Binding together, as in a fraternal organization.
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Rose
A fully opened Rose may indicate that the deceased died in the prime of life. The rose also signifies love, beauty and condolence.
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Rose - Broken Stem
A life cut short. A fully opened rose with a broken stem represents the death of a mature adult.
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Rose Bud
A rose bud symbolizes a life cut short and is most often found on the graves of children.
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Scroll
Scrolls are sometimes used instead of a book to represent the writings, wisdom or beliefs of the deceased.
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Scythe or Sickle
The scythe is a weapon of death indicative of mortality.
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Sea Shell, Scallop Shell
Man's earthly pilgrimage; birth and resurrection
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Sextons Tools
The tools of the sexton, or cemetery keeper, were generally represented as a spade and turf cutter with a triangular blade representing mortality.
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NA
Shield
A shield may be a family crest, or may indicate a soldier's burial. Union Civil War soldiers typically had a shield
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Ship
Ships are generally used to mark a grave of one who led a seafaring life. Christians also use the symbol to represent passage to afterlife.
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Shoes
Shoes may be a symbol of a profession, such as a dancer.
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Shriners
Philanthropic, fraternal organization limited to Masons who have completed the York Rite or Scottish Rite masonic courses.
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Sic Transit Gloria Mundi
"Thus passes away the Glory of the World" -- AKA "You Can't Take it With you"
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Signature - Barret & Co. N.O. (New Orleans)
Tombstone signed by carver Barret & Co.
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Signature - Clark Memorials, Birmingham, Alabama
Tombstone signed by Clark Memorials, Birmingham, Alabama.
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Signature - Clark, J.S. and Co., Louisville, KY
Tombstone signed by carver J.S. Clark & Co., Lou. Ky
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Signature - Duncan, C.T.
Tombstone signed by carver C.T. Duncan
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Signature - Gantt
Carver signature on tombstone - Dr. E. Gantt of Talladega County, Alabama.
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Signature - Herd
Herd signature other than G. or A. Herd. Five Herd brothers from Scotland carved many tombstones found through Alabama from the late 1830s to abt 1880
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Signature - Herd, A. (Alexander)
Signature found on tombstones Greene Co., Alabama. Alexander Herd was born in Scotland and was among the first to quarry marble in Sylacauga, Alabama.
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Signature - Herd, G. (George)
Signature found on tombstones signed by G. Herd. George Herd was born in Scotland and was among the first to quarry marble in Sylacauga, Talladega Co.
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Signature - Holt, T.H.
Signature of Thomas H. Holt from Birmingham, Alabama.
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Signature - Hughes
Tombstone signed by carver B.J. Hughes of Vienna (Pickens County) Alabama.
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Signature - McDonald, March & Co.
Signature of carver McDonald, March and Co.
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Signature - McKinley, J. H. Demopolis
J.H. McKinley used beautiful symbolism on the white, marble tombstone of Mary Todd Collins in St. Andrews Episcopal Cemetery
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Signature - Miller from Mississippi
Signature of Carver on tombstone R. Miller or R & C Miller of Mississippi.
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Signature - Montgomery, J.N. of Selma
Tombstone signed by carver John Newton Montgomery of Selma, Alabama
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Signature - Nix
Tombstone signed by carver J.M.N.B. Nix of Alabama
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Signature - Oden
Tombstone signed by Henry P. Oden, carver.
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Signature - ONeil
Tombstone signed by ONeil & Sons or J.J. ONeil of Meridian, Mississippi
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Signature - Quigley
Tombstone signed by carver Quigley or marked Quigly Memorials.
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Signature - Rosebrough & Sons, St. Louis
Tombstone signed by Rosebrough & Sons of St. Louis, Missouri.
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Signature - Snyder & Autry
Tombstone signed by Snyder & Autry of Tennessee
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Signature - Trinchard, 90 Water St., Mobile AL
Signature of carver found on tombstones primarily in Alabama.
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Signature - Turner, J.
Tombstone signed by carver J.(Jarvis) Turner of Mobile, Alabama.
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Signature - Wildman
Tombstone signed by carver T.H. Wildman
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Signature - Yancey
A.J. Yancey, Birmingham, Ala. Yancey & Kean, Corinth, Miss. A.J. Yancey, Corinth, Miss.
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Signature on tombstone
Signature on tombstone by master carver.
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Sleeping
Eternal Rest
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Snake or Serpent
A snake biting its tail is a symbol of immortality or everlasting life. A coiled snake indicates sin.
Burials
Sons of Temperance [Love, Purity, Charity]
A triangle inscribed with the words Love, Purity and Charity is the symbol for the Sons of Temperance.
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Spanish American War
The soldier's of the Spanish American War may have symbol with the acronym USWV for United Spanish War Veterans
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Sphinx
The Sphinx represents strength and protection and is generally seen as a guardian of the tomb.
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Spiral
The single spiral symbolizes the concept of growth, expansion and cosmic energy depending on the culture. It represented the sun in ancient Ireland.
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Stag, Hart, Buck and Deer
A stag on a Coat of Arms represents Policy, Peace and Harmony. A stag with a cross attached to its antlers portrays The Legend of St. Eustace.
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Star
Stars are frequently used as religious symbols.
Burials
Star - Six Pointed
Symbolic of God, the creator of the universe. The six points refer to his attributes: wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth.
Burials
Story Stones
Story stones tell a story and are a pictorial representation of how the deceased died.
Burials
Sun
A shining sun represents Heavenly light. Also see "Winged Sun Disk."
Burials
Sunflower
In Catholic iconography the sun represents the divine light of God and the Sunflower represents the devout striving toward God.
Burials
Sword
A sword is typically a symbol of military service. When the sword is on the base of the stone it may indicate service with the infantry.
Burials
Tent
Societies associate tents with a place to summon the powers of God. A symbol used by the Masons
Burials
Thistle
The thistle frequently represent someone of Scottish descent. It can also mean earthly sorrow or defiance.
Burials
Tools
Tools are generally a symbol of the trade of the deceased.
Burials
Torch
A lit torch signifies life or eternal life. An extinguished torch symbolizes death. An inverted torch with a flame symbolizes the eternal soul.
Burials
Train or Locomotive
A train typically represents the occupation of the deceased.
Burials
Tree
A tree may represent knowledge as in the "tree of knowledge". Also see "Tree Stump". A broken tree branch may signify a life cut short.
Burials
Tree Stump
A tree stump means life was interrupted. A severed tree branch symbolizes the end of life cycle.
Burials
Trefoil
Three equal circles joined generally represents the Trinity.
Burials
Triangle
Holy Trinity
Burials
Trumpet
Praise of God; Judgement Day,
Burials
Turtle or Tortoise
The turtle is generally used as a decorative element, though it may represent longevity, patience, durability and strength.
Burials
Unidentified/Unknown Symbol
Tombstone emblems that have yet to be identified in our current classification system.
Burials
United States Marines
United States Marines
Burials
United States Navy
United States Navy
Burials
Urn
Immortality, penitence, death of the body and its return to dust in the final resting-place. The draped Urn represents sorrow or mourning.
Burials
Venus Fly Trap
From David M. Habben: The Venus fly trap reminds us to keep our options open. To open our hearts. To not make hasty decisions.
Burials
Vietnam War
U.S. Vietnam soldiers tombstones may be symbolized with membership emblems such as VVA - Vietnam Veterans of America
Burials
Violets
Humility, faithfulness, modesty. A flower of spring represents youth; short life.
Burials
NA
Vulture
Twin vultures are Egyptian symbols for maternal care. Vulture's wings symbolize protection and maternal care.
Burials
War of 1812
The War of 1812 was fought between the United States and Great Britain from June 1812 to the spring of 1815
Burials
Wheat
The divine harvest; old age, fruitful life, life fulfilled.
Burials
Wheel
Eternity, continuation and progress. A broken wheel symbolizes a finished journey. A wheel may also represent Buddhism or industry such as automotive.
Burials
Willow Tree
Perpetual Mourning; Grief
Burials
Winged Hourglass
Mortality, fleeting earthly existence, "time flies"
Burials
Winged Sun Disk
Appears on many Egyptian tombs and temple entrances and commemorates the victory of light over darkness, and the life giving properties of the sun.
Burials
Womens Relief Corps - WRC
WRC - The Woman's Relief Corp worked to relieve the sufferings of veterans of the Civil War.
Burials
Woodmen of the World
Fraternal benefit society, with members connected by their membership and their desire to better their lives, and their communities
Burials
World War I
1914-1918 - The Great War. U.S. Military graves are often marked with a small, white cross
Burials
World War II
1939-1945. U.S. Military graves are often marked with a small, white cross
Burials
Wreath
Victory in Death. Wreath of Roses - Heavenly Joy. Beauty and virtue rewarded in time.
Burials