Reading Stories Written in Stone: Discovering the Symbolism of Historic Gravestones

Location of Southwest Virginia Museum in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Victorian Parlor
Main Park Address: Southwest Virginia Museum, 10 West First St. N., Big Stone Gap, VA 24219.

When

Oct. 24, 2026. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Reading Stories Written in Stone: Discovering the Symbolism of Historic Gravestones

In Southwest Virginia, stories are often found in the quiet details of old cemeteries. On Saturday, October 24, from 2–3 p.m., Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park will host an educational program exploring the symbols carved into historic gravestones and what they reveal about the lives, beliefs, and traditions of past generations.

Participants will learn how to interpret common gravestone imagery—angels, flowers, books, clasped hands, lambs, urns, and more—and discover how these symbols have changed over time. For many in Appalachia, these cemeteries serve as powerful links to family and community history.

This family-friendly program offers a new way to view local history, genealogy, and Appalachian culture. This program will be held in the museum’s Victorian Parlor.

No registration is required.

For more information, contact the park at 276-523-9640.

Cemetery

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: No.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-523-9640
Email Address: SWVAMuseum@dcr.virginia.gov