Headstones commemorate the lives of those who have passed away and designate the final resting place where loved ones can pay their respects. While modern stones can be complex in design, more basic forms of grave markers have been around for millennia. If you're in the process of finding a headstone for your loved one, here’s what you should know about their unique history. 

What Were Early Graves Like?

During the Stone Age, which is believed to have begun nearly 2.6 million years ago, humans were buried with a large pile of stones over the top. By 2,000 BCE, the stone pile was replaced with early grave markers known as dolmens. One such set of dolmens is the famous Stonehenge formation in Wiltshire, England. 

How Did They Evolve Throughout the Years?

As civilizations became more developed, the practice shifted to a tradition meant to honor the dead. Cultures such as the ancient Egyptians created tombs and enormous pyramids to memorialize prominent figures, and depictions of the deceased were also carved into stones as a way of capturing their memory. In ancient Greece, surviving family members would have stone statues created and placed near grave sites to preserve memories of loved ones.

The Dark Ages, during which plagues led to large numbers of deaths in rapid succession, saw some of the first primitive cemeteries. While the deceased were traditionally buried near their homes, the practice shifted to burial lots near churches and other remote locations. Some families used wooden, iron, or brass crosses to mark gravesites when they couldn’t afford proper headstones. By the Victorian era, funerals became more elaborate, and carpenters created markers with detail out of wood and iron.

What Are Today's Headstones Like?

Thanks to modern technology such as laser cutting, there are more options available for grave markers than ever before. Today, headstones are available in a number of materials, designs, and further customizations. Granite is a popular, durable choice, while marble is well-liked for its unique blue and grey veins. 

Metals such as bronze and stainless steel offer a regal quality to any memorial. Stones can also be shaped into specific emblems or objects, such as a cross or other religious symbols, and may be polished for a neat, finished appearance. Additionally, inscriptions and laser etchings can be added for text and images, providing a level of personalization that was never before possible.

When residents of Rochester, NY, need beautiful headstones to honor the lives of their loved ones, they turn to McGee Monuments. For over a century, this locally owned company has helped families memorialize those close to them with custom engravings and other personal touches. They use quality materials like granite to ensure that the headstone will withstand the elements. Learn more about the options they offer online, or call (585) 546-4602 for questions about the process.