Willow and stars

I had just left Marion Cemetery, a beautiful cemetery full of large monuments, statuary, and private mausoleums. On my way home, I took “the scenic route” past (and into) several small, rural cemeteries. My last stop of the day was Pleasant Cemetery—and yes, it was...quite pleasant.

One of the Pleasant gravestones, that for Peter Shrock (d. 1847), is a nice example of a mid-19th century stone with a willow-and-stars motif.

In memory of
PHILLIP SHROCK.
died May 19, 1847;
Ag’d 55 yrs. 6 mos. &
21 ds.

The weeping willow symbolizes mourning and sadness; the stars, divine guidance. In particular, 5-pointed stars represent the Star of Bethlehem.

Pleasant Cemetery, Marion County, Ohio