AUGUSTA GALLERY
of WEST VIRGINIA FOLKLIFE
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| GRAVE MARKERS |
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These are tree stump grave markers at Franklin, Pendleton County. This motif is widely found just before and after the turn of the twentieth century. These markers signify being "cut down in the prime of life." Sometimes broken limbs have significance. Ivy and ferns growing from the base both signify everlasting life in herbal lore. (FA1095E) |
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Pictured
here is a homemade grave marker at Enoch, Clay County. This marker is of
poured concrete and decorated with marbles using a Christian symbol (the
cross). Economic and isolation factors account for a large number of
homemade grave markers in West Virginia.
(FA191D) |
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The
Woodsmen of the World, a union of timber workers, often used the tree
stump motif and encased photograph for their grave markers.
(FA495A)
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The hand
shake or "Parting Hand" is a widely used motif on late
nineteenth and early twentieth century grave markers. It is a symbolic
gesture found in a regionally favored shape note hymn, "The Parting
Hand."
(FA499G)
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The
neo-classical willow image gained widespread popularity in the
nineteenth century. The "Weeping Willow" signified mourning.
It is often seen with a funerary urn, and (rarely) with a woman standing
adjacent to it.
(G401D) |
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The
pointing finger (up) is sometimes seen with a caption saying "To
Heaven." Unwritten, it symbolizes that aspect of belief.
(G401P)
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Stump
stones may be hand carved from marble or granite, like these, or shaped
from tufa, a naturally formed substance that is more easily carved in
great detail. (G601O) |