The Lost Language of Cemeteries
You expect to find names and dates on gravestones but what’s all that other stuff? What were the seemingly random symbols, shapes, figures, and other designs carved in the stones intending to communicate? This mostly forgotten language of cemetery symbols was understood at a glance by cemetery visitors 100 years ago but is sadly lost to most of us. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
With a little knowledge and a little practice you too can crack the code involving anchors, acorns, broken columns, inverted torches, severed flower buds, tree bark, etc. So, let’s learn about this secret language by exploring Arlington Cemetery and staying for the symbolism scavenger hunt toward the end of our time!
INSTRUCTIONS: Park along Mary Street or in the lot of Senter Park (700 S. Mary Street). Then look for an Arlington Public Library flag or banner near a canopy tent just inside the cemetery. If you have a folding chair or camp chair, feel free to bring it!
- Date:
- Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Time:
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Time Zone:
- Central Time - US & Canada (change)
- Audience:
- Adults (18+) Seniors
- Categories:
- Featured Programs Genealogy & Local History