| In response to my “Walking through Cemeteries” article, Carl
Mobley reminded me of a good point that I had left out of my article. Carl stated, “You
cannot always believe what is inscribed on a tombstone. The information is only as
accurate as that given by the informer and the interpretation by the stone mason. I have
found incorrect spellings, dates (as much as 10 years off) and even the wrong person
listed on tombstones. The first situation that comes to mind was placed by the Confederate
Sons for Eli Hicks in the Macedonia Cemetery, Baker Co, Florida. They had him mixed up
with another Eli Hicks buried in the Waldo, FL cemetery, and as far as I know, they have
yet to correct the error.”
Carl makes a
valuable point, as I have discovered multiple errors; therefore, I know he makes a valid
point. This should be a reminder for all to purchase memorials on a pre-need basis in
order to make certain that everything is inscribed and delivered correctly.
Additionally,
the monument builder and memorialist have an obligation to assure a proper interpretation.
For example, Hebrew is commonly used on memorials and can be used incorrectly,
specifically when the lettering is incorrect. To avoid this problem, our policy is to
impress upon the aid of those people who are knowledgeable in the Hebrew language and to
consult with a Rabbi before commencing work where Hebrew letters are used.
Purchasing
during a time of intense grief is a mistake that should be avoided by all families, as
errors are more likely to be committed. One prospect contacted me after purchasing a
beautiful tombstone for her son. She then realized that she preferred a mausoleum. It is
hard to change your mind after purchasing an expensive and beautiful memorial. As I stated
previously, Plan now!
I encourage
other readers to provide their feedback on my articles, so I can assure my readers clear
communications. Thank you, Carl!
|
| About Burton Fletcher: Burton Fletcher, with over 20 years’ business experience, owns USAMonuments.com. He writes frequently on monument building and memorialization. He
is a licensed memorialist in Georgia and Florida and he ships and installs across the
United States and Canada. Burton is the founder and president of the Georgia Monument
Builders Association, www.GAMonumentBuilders.com. He enjoys photography, genealogy,
visiting cemeteries, and studying Southern monuments. Reach Burton at (888) 9Statue, (888)
978.2883, or (229) 245.8858 or e-mail Burton@USAMonuments.com for all your monument
needs. © Burton Fletcher 2005 All Rights Reserved. |
