An intriguing post, from Sir John's tomb to the cemetery. I, too, enjoy reading old headstones--and imagining the stories they tell. We recently walked around a historic cemetery with several stones that simply said "MOTHER" or "FATHER," surrounded by multiple children. Possibly a family illness, but mysterious nonetheless. It's interesting that women were usually labeled as wife, mother, or widow...as your photos illustrate. Thank you for an interesting read!
That is very curious - "mother" or "father" but no names. You'd think people went to the expense of a stone to be remembered, and a name would help with that!
You'd think! I'm wondering if the whole family was hit by influenza or another illness and someone else was paying for the remembrance. (These were small stones, not full headstones.)
An intriguing post, from Sir John's tomb to the cemetery. I, too, enjoy reading old headstones--and imagining the stories they tell. We recently walked around a historic cemetery with several stones that simply said "MOTHER" or "FATHER," surrounded by multiple children. Possibly a family illness, but mysterious nonetheless. It's interesting that women were usually labeled as wife, mother, or widow...as your photos illustrate. Thank you for an interesting read!
Thanks for reading!
That is very curious - "mother" or "father" but no names. You'd think people went to the expense of a stone to be remembered, and a name would help with that!
You'd think! I'm wondering if the whole family was hit by influenza or another illness and someone else was paying for the remembrance. (These were small stones, not full headstones.)
Oh, it could be! A sibling or cousin paying for them - something simple so they'd be remembered and it was affordable (and would last, unlike wood).
Your subject-matter enthusiasm makes this an appealing read.
Thank you! Going around old churches and seeing the memorials is one of my favourite things, and I'm glad that comes across!
It certainly does show. Absolutely. ...nice piece.