Tombstone Iconography

Category: Keyword to Search
Title	Description	Burials	Photo?
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.	Burials
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.	Burials
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.	Burials	NA
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.	Burials	NA
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.	Burials
Banner	Victory, Triumph, Rejoicing	Burials
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.	Burials
Boot	A boot on a grave probably represents a cowboy of sorts.	Burials
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.	Burials
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.	Burials
Circle	Two Circles entwined represent marriage. Anything circular is endless and may represent eternity.	Burials
Civil War	The Civil War was fought in the United States from April of 1861 to May of 1865.	Burials
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.	Burials
Clover	Symbol of the Trinity and a symbol of Ireland.	Burials
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.	Burials
Coffin	A coffin engraved on a tombstone is a symbol of mortality.	Burials
Colonial Dames	The National Society of Colonial Dames Seventeenth Century	Burials
Column	Noble life; a broken column represents life cut off and may represent the loss of the Family head.	Burials
Compass	A compass is typically represents a Mason. A compass on a Coat of Arms or Family Crest represents "direction"	Burials
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	Burials
Crane	Symbol of vigilance, good works and loyalty. In China, the crane symbolizes longevity and immortality.	Burials	NA
Crest/Coat of Arms	Family Crests/Coat of Arms are sometime found on tombstones with incredible detail.	Burials
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.	Burials
Cross - Bontonee	The Budded Cross. Three lobed ends or Buds, representing the trinity. Also known as Trefoil, Bottony, Botonee.	Burials
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.	Burials
Cross - Celtic	The Celtic or Irish Cross is a cross within a circle which stands for eternity.	Burials
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.	Burials
Cross - Egyptian	Also known as a Coptic Cross, adapted from the Ankh symbol, the symbol of life.	Burials
Cross - Episcopal	Episcopal Cross	Burials
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.	Burials
Cross - Greek	The Greek Cross has four equal arms and is the traditional symbol of Christian faith.	Burials
Cross - Ionic	Similar to the Celtic cross with ends that flair outward signifying everlasting salvation, love and glory.	Burials
Cross - Labarum	See Chi-Rho	Burials
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).	Burials
Cross - Lutheran	Lutheran Cross	Burials
Cross - Military	A small white cross marks many U.S. military graves. A cross made of airplane propellers is the "Distinguished Flying Cross"	Burials
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.	Burials
Cross - Presbyterian	Presbyterian Cross	Burials
Cross - Religious	The Cross is an emblem of faith. Nice site with crosses.	Burials
Cross - Russian Orthodox	The Russian Orthodox Cross consists of three bars, the lowest bar is slanted.	Burials
Cross - Swastika	The original swastika cross was a symbol of good fortune. Unfortunately, the swastika is now associated with Hitler and evil.	Burials
Cross - United Methodist Church	United Methodist Church Emblem	Burials
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.	Burials
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)	Burials
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.	Burials	NA
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.	Burials
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.	Burials
Dove - Descending	A dove descending represents a descent from Heaven -- an assurance of a passage to heaven.	Burials
Dove - Dive Bombing	A dive-bombing dove with a twig represents the Holy Ghost.	Burials
Dragon	The dragon is a legendary creature with reptilian traits and is one of the most common creatures in heraldry.	Burials
Dragonfly	Immortality, regeneration	Burials	NA
Drapery	Sorrow and mourning.	Burials
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.	Burials
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	Burials
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.	Burials
Father Time	Father time is generally equipped with a scythe and hour glass reprenting mortality and the passage of time.	Burials
Fawn	A fawn is a symbol of innocence and is generally found on the graves of children.	Burials
Fern	Humility, solitude and sincerity	Burials
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	Burials
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	Burials
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."	Burials
Garland	Vicotry in Death. Also see Wreaths and Swags.	Burials
Gate	Open gates symbolize afterlife; the entrance to heaven.	Burials
Grapes	Grapes, or Fruit, generally represent Eternal Plenty or Heavenly Abundance	Burials
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.	Burials
Gryphon	The Gryphon is a symbol of nobility and guardianship.	Burials
Hand holding a Cross	A hand holding a cross symbolizes resurrection and the eternal life of the soul.	Burials
Hand of God	A hand reaching though the clouds, from Heaven, represents the Hand of God.	Burials
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.	Burials
Harp or Lyre	Heavenly Music or Joy. The Harp is a symbol of hope --it may have a broken string. Symbol of Ireland.	Burials
Heart	Symbol of Divine Love and Charity. Two joined hearts symbolize love or marriage. Scottish symbol of the soul.	Burials
Heart with Anchor and Cross	Faith, Hope and Charity.	Burials
Heart with Sword	Catholic symbol known as the Immaculate Heart of Mary.	Burials
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"	Burials
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.	Burials
Hourglass	A reminder of the brevity of life and the passage of time. A flaming hourglass represents eternity. Also see Winged Hourglass.	Burials
HTWSSTKS	Acronym for "Hiram the Widows Son Sent to King Solomon" and is found on a keystone of Royal Arch Masons.	Burials
Hummingbird	Hummingbirds are primarily decorative.	Burials
Iris	In ancient mythology, the Iris was a messenger of the Gods.	Burials
Ivy	Ivy is a symbol of Immortality, Faithfulness and of Memory and Friendship.	Burials
Key	Symbolizes the key to unlock the gates of heaven (St. Peter), or a learned person or a symbol of knowledge of the scriptures.	Burials
Knights Templar	Established in England in the 18th century, the Masonic Templars claim descent from the Medieval Poor Soldiers in Christ.	Burials	NA
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.	Burials
Ladder	Resurrection	Burials	NA
Lamb	The Lamb is a symbol of innocence and is frequently used on the graves of children.	Burials
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.	Burials
Lion	Courage, Majesty and Strength. A winged lion represents St. Mark the Evangelist.	Burials
Lotus	Egyptian symbol of purity, resurrection, evolution, potential. Eloquence.	Burials
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.	Burials
Mason - Grand Master	Freemasons, uprightness, judgment	Burials
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.	Burials
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	Burials
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	Burials
Mexican War	The Mexican War between the United States and Mexico was fought 1846-1848.	Burials
Military Medals	U.S. Military graves may be marked with medals for distinguished services such as the Air Medal and the Purple Heart.	Burials
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.	Burials
MIZPAH	watch-tower; the look-out	Burials
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.	Burials
Moose	A moose may be found on the emblem for the "Loyal Order of the Moose" - a fraternal organization.	Burials
Morning Glory	Beginning of a new life; youth or resurrection.	Burials
Mortar and Pestle	Symbolizes a physician or pharmacist.	Burials
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.	Burials
Niobe	Queen of Thebes	Burials
Oak Tree, Leaves, Acorns	Oak leaves on tombs can stand for strength, endurance, power, authority, longevity or victory.	Burials
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.	Burials
Olive Branch or Twig	The Olive Branch symbolizes peace as well as fruitfulness, strength, and victory.	Burials
Orangemen	Loyal Orange Association of British America (Orangemen)	Burials
Orb or Ball	The Orb is primarily decorative. Three balls together may symbolize money (pawn shop.) Anything circular is endless and may represent eternity.	Burials
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.	Burials
Ox	A winged ox represents St. Luke the Evangelist.	Burials
Palm	The Palm signifies victory over death and rejoicing.	Burials
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.	Burials
Pansy	Think of Me, Thoughts, Remembrance, Humility.	Burials	NA
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.	Burials
Passion Flower	The Passion Flower symbolizes Christ's Passion, Redemption and Crucifixion. "The Passion of Christ"	Burials
Peacock	Immortality through resurrection. Glory, immortality, royalty, incorruptibility, and pride.	Burials
Pine Cone	Ancient symbol for regeneration and fertility; immortality	Burials
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."	Burials
Plants and Leaves	Plants and leaves symbolize many things, such as thistle for Scottish descent and remembrance. See specific plant types for more information	Burials
Poppies	Rest, sleep, peace, immortality.	Burials
Quatrefoil	A quatrefoil is composed of four equal lobes, like a four-petaled flower.Used for good luck -- similar to the four-leaf clovers.	Burials
Revolutionary War Loyalist	Tombstone Symbol unknown. Loyalists were sympathetic to the British during the Revolutionary war. Many fled to Nova Scotia, Canada.	Burials
Revolutionary War Patriot	Revolutionary War Patriot graves may be marked by the NSDAR (National Society Daughters of the American Revolution) insignia	Burials
Rocks	Christian symbol for the Lord.	Burials
Rope	Binding together, as in a fraternal organization.	Burials
Rose	A fully opened Rose may indicate that the deceased died in the prime of life. The rose also signifies love, beauty and condolence.	Burials
Rose - Broken Stem	A life cut short. A fully opened rose with a broken stem represents the death of a mature adult.	Burials
Rose Bud	A rose bud symbolizes a life cut short and is most often found on the graves of children.	Burials
Scroll	Scrolls are sometimes used instead of a book to represent the writings, wisdom or beliefs of the deceased.	Burials
Scythe or Sickle	The scythe is a weapon of death indicative of mortality.	Burials
Sea Shell, Scallop Shell	Man's earthly pilgrimage; birth and resurrection	Burials
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.	Burials	NA
Shield	A shield may be a family crest, or may indicate a soldier's burial. Union Civil War soldiers typically had a shield	Burials
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.	Burials
Shoes	Shoes may be a symbol of a profession, such as a dancer.	Burials
Shriners	Philanthropic, fraternal organization limited to Masons who have completed the York Rite or Scottish Rite masonic courses.	Burials
Sic Transit Gloria Mundi	"Thus passes away the Glory of the World" -- AKA "You Can't Take it With you"	Burials
Signature - Barret & Co. N.O. (New Orleans)	Tombstone signed by carver Barret & Co.	Burials
Signature - Clark Memorials, Birmingham, Alabama	Tombstone signed by Clark Memorials, Birmingham, Alabama.	Burials
Signature - Clark, J.S. and Co., Louisville, KY	Tombstone signed by carver J.S. Clark & Co., Lou. Ky	Burials
Signature - Duncan, C.T.	Tombstone signed by carver C.T. Duncan	Burials
Signature - Gantt	Carver signature on tombstone - Dr. E. Gantt of Talladega County, Alabama.	Burials
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	Burials
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.	Burials
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.	Burials
Signature - Holt, T.H.	Signature of Thomas H. Holt from Birmingham, Alabama.	Burials
Signature - Hughes	Tombstone signed by carver B.J. Hughes of Vienna (Pickens County) Alabama.	Burials
Signature - McDonald, March & Co.	Signature of carver McDonald, March and Co.	Burials
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	Burials
Signature - Miller from Mississippi	Signature of Carver on tombstone R. Miller or R & C Miller of Mississippi.	Burials
Signature - Montgomery, J.N. of Selma	Tombstone signed by carver John Newton Montgomery of Selma, Alabama	Burials
Signature - Nix	Tombstone signed by carver J.M.N.B. Nix of Alabama	Burials
Signature - Oden	Tombstone signed by Henry P. Oden, carver.	Burials
Signature - ONeil	Tombstone signed by ONeil & Sons or J.J. ONeil of Meridian, Mississippi	Burials
Signature - Quigley	Tombstone signed by carver Quigley or marked Quigly Memorials.	Burials
Signature - Rosebrough & Sons, St. Louis	Tombstone signed by Rosebrough & Sons of St. Louis, Missouri.	Burials
Signature - Snyder & Autry	Tombstone signed by Snyder & Autry of Tennessee	Burials
Signature - Trinchard, 90 Water St., Mobile AL	Signature of carver found on tombstones primarily in Alabama.	Burials
Signature - Turner, J.	Tombstone signed by carver J.(Jarvis) Turner of Mobile, Alabama.	Burials
Signature - Wildman	Tombstone signed by carver T.H. Wildman	Burials
Signature - Yancey	A.J. Yancey, Birmingham, Ala. Yancey & Kean, Corinth, Miss. A.J. Yancey, Corinth, Miss.	Burials
Signature on tombstone	Signature on tombstone by master carver.	Burials
Sleeping	Eternal Rest	Burials
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.	Burials
Spanish American War	The soldier's of the Spanish American War may have symbol with the acronym USWV for United Spanish War Veterans	Burials
Sphinx	The Sphinx represents strength and protection and is generally seen as a guardian of the tomb.	Burials
Spiral	The single spiral symbolizes the concept of growth, expansion and cosmic energy depending on the culture. It represented the sun in ancient Ireland.	Burials	NA
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.	Burials
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