Several months ago while working fulfill a local genealogy research request I photographed a large number of headstones that had not been previously documented on FindAGrave. Today, I received a research request for John Katon, a decedent whose marker I had previously photographed. The requestor stated that the epitaph was unreadable and was hoping that the epitaph had been recorded during an earlier survey.
Fortunately, we had some time and D2 on hand, and were able to visit Vernon Cemetery to both clean and read John Katon’s marker. It is interesting to note that Mr. Katon has two markers in this cemetery and while they are near each they are not located in such close proximity that they could be considered the same grave. Despite there being a steady drizzle throughout the day we were able to do a good initial cleaning and read the marker to the point that the research request was fulfilled.
Before & After Photos
Video of Stone Reading
Stages of Cleaning
Headstone Transcription
John Katon. Died October 8, 1865. Aged 25 years, 5 months, 22 days. Epitaph: My husband dear who was so near, Is fled and gone. My head and stay is gone away, And I am left alone.
