Tombstone Tuesday-Rose Symbol

A rose signifies beauty, hope, or unfailing love.

Rose symbol, Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapak, OH.

Rose symbol, Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapak, OH.

During the Victorian Age the rose symbol was frequently used on the tombstones of women or young girls.

The growth stage of a rose can be an indication of a person’s age. A rosebud, broken bud, or a rose in partial bloom represents a child. A rose in full bloom represents a mature person.

Rose symbol, Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapak, OH.

Joined rosebuds symbolize a strong bond between two people. Several rosebuds on the same branch represent secrecy. A wreath of roses signifies beauty and virtue. 

Rose symbol, Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapak, OH.

A red rose symbolizes martyrdom and a white rose symbolizes purity.

Rose symbol, Swamp College Cemetery, Mercer County, OH.

Rose symbol, Willshire Cemetery.

It is said that the rose in Paradise did not have thorns but acquired them on earth to remind man of his fall from grace. However, the rose’s fragrance and beauty remained to suggest to man was Paradise is like.

Rose symbol, Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Schumm, OH.

Rose symbol, Willshire Cemetery.

Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Schumm, OH.

Roses are sometimes associated with the Virgin Mary, the “rose without thorns.”

2 comments

  1. Lovely photos and explanations.

    1. Thank you!

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