‘The Silent Language of the Stones: Reading Gravestones Through Symbols and Carvings’

Symbols and icons have been used on tombstones for centuries, but it was not until the mid-1800s that this secret language on the stones became popular. Victorians began to decorate graves with carvings, symbols and statues – all the while, telling a story about the deceased including family relationships, religious affiliations, military service, occupations, and society memberships. Even sharing how someone had died – all by utilizing this beautiful yet silent language.