Newton County has a vast history full of many different time periods and significance. These time periods, which seem to be forever changing allows for symbols and words to have different meanings at different times. Cemeteries are a big part of
Newton’s history, where most of the past is buried away. If you have yet to read out initial blog post on cemeteries, here, I strongly urge you to check it out. In this post, we will be discussing the top four grave marker symbols that help us connect this evolving future with what was happening in the past. Whether it’s the symbol or writing on the gravestone, to the flowers that are placed on the plot, there are many different meanings and significance to what was in the past.
First, clasping hands on a gravestone is important because is signifies the reunification in Heaven. As you’ll see in the photo, the plain cuff represents a man, while the pleated cuff represents the woman.
Second, ascending doves can represent more than one thing, as some say it represents peace, while others claim its stake as a messenger of God.
Anchors represent God’s protection, watching over the dead and protecting them from whatever harm may come.
Finally, Inverted torches are an important part of grave marker symbols. This symbol represents death, and the soul continuing into the next life.
While all of these are important, there are still many out there. Check out this website to see a complete list of grave marker symbols, and stay tuned next week for an overview of what each flower means with regard to cemeteries, especially in Newton County!
