Webinar Abstract: Gravestones are more than markers of burial—they are enduring historical records that reflect the cultural, artistic, and social values of their time. This lecture explores the evolution of gravestone design, materials, and craftsmanship from early memorial traditions to modern practices. It highlights how shifts in symbolism, language, and iconography reveal changing beliefs about death, identity, and remembrance across generations. The session also introduces practical techniques for examining weathered markers, including safe methods for enhancing legibility, while emphasizing preservation. Through these approaches, gravestones and epitaphs become vivid connections to the past, offering insight not only into personal histories but into the broader human experience.
Presenter: Michael L. Strauss, AG, AGL, is a military historian and professional genealogist with over 30 years of experience in the field. He holds a BA and MA in History and is a United States Coast Guard veteran. His expertise is recognized in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia courts, where he has testified as an expert witness. Michael has lectured at universities, conferences, and institutes and contributed to publications, including peer-reviewed articles, public history articles, and book reviews, highlighting his expertise in military history.
Registration: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fYho9-A_SiiFuh3pDlMsKw
