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MEMORABLE TOMBSTONES
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Here we have an extremely good example of a well preserved tombstone of the early 1900s which gives information about two generations of the family confirming printed records. There are many ‘of the name’ who will recognize the inscribed names and will be able to relate to them. There have been, so far, at least 50 persons with the surname Shrapnell who will have owed their existence to JAMES and THERESA. This is apart from the very many descended from them with other names who have married into the family. The tombstone is in Ladywell Cemetery in South East London and I was most grateful to receive a copy of this photograph from a family member about ten years ago. |
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Many family tombstones still exist, some in forgotten corners of neglected churchyards, often with almost illegible writing. Instance the family tomb at Byfleet (mentioned elsewhere in this document) placed there post 1863, some 140 or so years ago. There the stonework lettering is all but washed out. It is highly unlikely that there have been any family visits to that grave for over 100 years; it may well be that my visit this year may has been the first with the family name since that time?
The message then is simple. Please photograph any tombstones that bear Shrapnel(l) or related names whether or not they are from your branch of the tree. Also make a separate transcription of the inscribed words – some of the wording on the older ones will be difficult if not impossible to interpret from the photograph. If you are able to note the plot number this will be helpful, otherwise draw a plan based on some permanent object so that the plot will be easy to locate. You may be the only one to record this!
Then let me have a copy to add to my records – thank you
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