The gravestone inscriptions of late 18th/early 19th century New England can tell us more than just the deceased name and date of death. Symbolic and literal representations of life and death flourish during this time period, creating gravestone art in a wide and dazzling array of styles. Knowing what those symbols mean can help us interpret the life of the individual as well as their time and culture.
In this three part series, we visit an old friend: Relief Wilcox Town, from TSLoD Episode 3: Relief. Her gravestone is one of the most beautiful and unique designs I’ve ever seen and it made me wonder what all of that said about her. These show will look into the origin and meaning of gravestone art found in the Middle Connecticut River Valley of New Hampshire and Vermont, as well as some information about specific gravestone carvers. We’ll take some trips to local cemeteries, visit with an historic gravestone restorationist and since we’re talking about art, go visit some artists to see what they think. Should be fun…..