These are some of the very common symbols you will find on Michigan tombstones. Click on the slideshow above for more info on the tombstones and symbols pictured.
Dove- The dove is a very common animal symbol, mostly because of its Biblical meaning. Usually holding an olive branch which refers to Noah from the Bible. Also a symbol of purity and peace.
Willow Trees- Grief, sorrow and immortality.
Closed book- Many represent the bible but they can also stand for a life completed.
Curtains- Passing into another existence. Protection
Broken Column- Life cut short and life coming to an end. A very popular symbol in cemeteries in the 19th century.
Praying Hands- Christian symbol
Lambs- Innocence. Usually found on the graves of children and babies.
Flowers- Flowers have been used in burial ceremonies since the early days of civilization and before. Flowers have always held a soft spot in people. Their beauty and fragility is a symbol for life and love.
Fingers pointing up- A symbol of the soul rising to heaven.
Hands shaking- Matrimony. Sometimes there is one masculine hand and one feminine hand. Look at the sleeves of the hands. If there is no difference in the sleeves, then the hands are a symbol of being greeted into heaven or saying good-bye from earth.
IHS and IHC- Many times these letters are seen connected with each other. IHS comes from the first three letter of Jesus’ name using the Greek alphabet: Iota, Eta, Sigma.” IHC stands for the same thing, but is Roman.
Broken branches- Life cut short.
Tree stumps- Life cut short.