Military Flag Holders at the Cemetery
We’ve all seen them – those military flag holders at the cemetery. They are often right next to the gravestone of a Veteran, sometimes holding a flag but more often empty. But exactly why are they there? Who put them there? And what can they…
Egyptian Gravestone Symbols
Have you ever come across Egyptian gravestone symbols in the cemetery – perhaps even on your own ancestor’s gravestone – and wondered why they were there and what they meant? Obelisks, pyramids, and other Egyptian symbols are fairly common throughout the United States, Europe, and…
Irish Gravestone Symbols
Are there Irish gravestone symbols at your ancestor’s final resting place? As you learn what the symbols are and the meanings behind them you’ll come to understand your heritage better. My father was born into a strong Irish family – on St. Patrick’s Day, no…
Understanding Cemetery Crosses
Understanding cemetery crosses can help us understand the faith of our ancestors. It can sometimes even help us discover their heritage and country of origin. Many American genealogists have discovered through DNA tests that the roots of their heritage are in Europe. European cultures have…
Understanding Cemetery Symbols, Part II
My friend planned to propose marriage to his girlfriend with a diamond ring and a dozen pink roses. He hid the flowers in the backseat of his car while they attended a football game. After the game, he whipped out the bouquet as he proclaimed,…
Understanding Cemetery Symbols, Part I
Learning to Read a Cemetery: Understanding cemetery symbols can give you clues to your ancestor’s lives! And it will make your trips to the cemetery amazing! Do you remember when you learned to read? As a child, it was fun to look at pictures in…
