Mike

Here in the east (I'm in Maryland) it is not uncommon to find ordinary rocks  
as grave markers.  No markings or alterations to the stone.

Ed Otter

Sent via DROID on Verizon Wireless

-----Original message-----
From: [log in to unmask]
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Thu, Jan 1, 1970 00:00:00 GMT+00:00
Subject: Sandstone headstone question

Hello Histarchers.  I have a question concerning a project we are currently  
undertaking in Utah.  In order to accommodate construction of a building, we  
are exhuming and moving a grave which is outside of a cemetery.  It has what  
appears to be a headstone, though there are no discernable markings on it.   
It is rough cut native sandstone and seems, with little doubt to be a  
headstone.  It is roughly shaped, and even sawn off at one end and lies near  
one end of the grave. There are no other stones of such size in the area.   
The grave probably dates to about 1900, based on the fact that there are two  
infant graves in the vicinity dating to the early 20th Century.    

We are very interested in trying to decipher an inscription on it, if such  
is there. We don't even know if there really is an inscription on it or if  
something was painted on the stone.  It may have never been altered, but  
just placed there to mark the grave.  But, we would like to be sure.  Can  
anyone suggest methods that might bring out markings if they were worn down  
or if remnants of paint remain or if some other means might have been used  
to mark the stone?  The stone was laying down, so its not even certain which  
side might have been used.  Both sides are somewhat rough, though one side  
is less so.

Any suggestions would be most appreciated.

Mike   


Michael R. Polk, M.A., RPA 
Principal Archaeologist 
Sagebrush Consultants, L.L.C. 
Ogden, Utah
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