Darned Grave Markers

We depend upon records to reveal the “truth” about our pasts.

Yet sometimes records have anomalies.
Some are amusing or humorous.
Some are interesting or weird.
Some are peculiar or suspicious.
Some are infuriating, even downright laughable.

Yes, “Records Say the Darnedest Things.”

Records Say the Darnedest Things: Darned Grave Markers

Good genealogists extract subtle clues from records while simultaneously holding that same record suspect. The two are at odds, but both are necessary. Many records have additional value waiting for the careful, well-informed researcher. However, no record is above verification.

A case in point is the grave marker of Donald N. Hall and Dorothy N, pictured here.

 

What clues can you discern from this marker? Are there any clues about religion or economic circumstances? If you deduced that Dorothy is still living, you are correct. However, you might have made another, incorrect assumption without even thinking. Can you guess what it might be?

If you assumed that Donald and Dorothy were married, you are correct; BUT NOT TO EACH OTHER!

They are, however, related. They are twins.

Darned grave markers!

Credit Mike Hall for the photograph and the example. Thanks, Mike!