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Guide to Memorial Symbols
Clasped Hands
Parting or farewell, or unity in life and death. Partnership or a bond.
Stone: Jacob W. Martin, RH Methodist
Acorn & Oak Leaves
Strength, honor, steadfastness and immortality. The acorn is a symbol of life, fertility and immortality.
Stone: Joseph R. Spurr, RH Methodist
Scroll
Alludes to parts of life lived and parts that were yet to come on either side of the rolled document.
Stone: Massonneau, RH Lutheran
Wreath
Stands for memory and victory over death.
Stone: Margaret R. Cole, RH Methodist
Draped Urn
The funerary urn is found on many 19th century monuments when Classical symbols were popular, the drape is a cover or veil between life and death.
Stone: Richard Nicks, RH Methodist
Rose
Symbolizes immortal love or a union that will never fade. A broken rose symbolizes life cut short.
Stone: George W. Fraleigh, RH Methodist
Lily of the Valley
A return of happiness, or humility, chastity, sweetness and purity.
Stone: Claude Hoffman, Old Red Church, Tivoli
Masonic Symbols
Shriners (left): The scimitar stands for its members, the points of the crescent represent the fraternity and its philanthropy. The sphinx’s head represents the head of the organization. The five-pointed star represents the children that the Shriners’ efforts help. Masons (right): The square (bottom V shape) symbolizes morality, honesty and fairness. The compass (top V shape) Moderation, integrity, and wisdom. The “G” may stand for Geometry, or for “Great Architect”
Stone: William Witherwax, Old Red Church, Tivoli
Independent Order of Odd Fellows
The symbol of this fraternal organization is three chain links which symbolize Friendship, Love and Truth.
Stone: John H. Shafer, RH Lutheran
Ivy/Vines
Friendship and immortality, eternity, fidelity, and strong affectionate attachment.
Stone: Minne & Ralph Traver, RH Lutheran
Lamp
Represents the light of Christ, or knowledge and learning.
Stone: Terpening/MacMichael, RH Lutheran
Star
Stands for many things, including eternity or immortality and divine guidance, hope, dreams and life everlasting.
Stone: Nathan Beckwith, St. John’s Upper Red Hook
Willow
A weeping willow symbolizes mourning, grief and earthly sorrow.
Stone: Jacob B. VanSteenburg, St. John’s Upper RH