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Grave of Martha Julia Epps Smith McElveen Cemetery, Williamsburg,SC ©Cheri Hudson Passey |
The headstone is laying on the ground and is cracked and worn.
Headstone of Martha Julia Epps Smith McElveen Cemetery, Williamsburg,SC ©Cheri Hudson Passey |
Although hard to read, the inscription says:
Mrs. Martha Smith
consort of H.J. Smith
who departed this life
13 July 1854 aged 46 years, 6 months, 11 days
Martha was a wife, daughter, sister and mother of 13. Sad to see her headstone, the last tribute to her life in such a bad state.
Can it or should it be repaired? That is a question mulling around in my mind.
There are many descendants of Martha and her husband Henry J. Smith (1807-1849). Perhaps we can come together and find an answer.
Are we kin? If so, please contact me! Together we can find our people!
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Cheri, I'm glad you were able to find and photograph the headstone while it is still visible. I wonder if a stone that is so badly broken can be saved. On another note, I wonder why she is called a consort? Were they common law married or was there a ceremony? Or does it mean something else?
ReplyDeleteHi Wendy! A Consort in those days was one whose spouse was still living. Not sue if there is something that can be done about the stone. I always hate to see them like that! Thanks so much for reading my post! Sure appreciate you leaving a comment too!
DeleteIt's so sad that the stone is in such bad shape. But, it's wonderful that you were able to find and photograph it.
ReplyDeleteIt is sad. Wish I could do something about it! Thanks for reading and commenting, Jana! I really appreciate it!
DeleteThe stone is repairable, and it's not beyond the skill of average people. I attended a seminar by this person http://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonharpe last year in Belton SC to learn how to do it. You might want to contact him and see if there is a seminar coming up that you can attend and pick up the skills and a material list to do the job right.
ReplyDeleteJim Poole
Jim, thanks so much for the information!
DeleteDoes anyone maintain the cemetery? I have lots of ancestors buried there and would certainly like to help however I can in preserving it - Wilson McElveen
ReplyDeleteIt looks as if someone has. I will follow up and let you know. Thanks, Wilson!
DeleteMy Family too I'd be will ing to volunteer also.Whiteraven127@gmail.com
ReplyDelete