Have you ever noticed tree shaped gravestones at historic cemeteries?
Treestones have an interesting history. They became popular after an organization called Woodmen of the World would give its members a free headstone.
Woodmen of the World had designed an adult and child version of the treestones and would send the pattern to the member’s local stone carver. Many of these graves are also marked with the letters “WOW.”
Gravestones in this style started to gain traction outside of the group, as funeral practices in the United States shifted towards a celebration of life.
Many thought the tree design symbolized life and strength. In some cases, the treestones were used to symbolize the loss of a life that was “cut” too short as the designs usually show what looks like a log.
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