Thoroughly Modern Memorial

We tend to assume, do we not, that headstones are erected soon after the deceased is laid to rest. In some cases however, a descendant has a headstone put in place long after the death occurred. And this dear readers, is a wonderful clue that another family historian may be lurking about. So when a headstone looks too “new” for the era…

The Cost of a Funeral Carriage

The 19th and 20th century obituaries I transcribe for this blog and for Find A Grave often mention cars (railroad cars that is) or carriages as the mode of transportation for the deceased and their family and friends. I’ve often wondered about the cost of each and which my ancestors chose. As luck would have it,…

Siblings Share a Headstone

Auntie died on this day in 1973. Six months later, her younger brother passed away. Auntie and Unkie lived together nearly all of their lives. It was fitting that these siblings should remain together even after death. Their headstone comes to mind every time another Find A Grave contributor asks me to link people as spouses. We can not assume…