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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.
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| 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!
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