Genealogy Chat

What would be the best way to clean up an old family headstone that is difficult to read WITHOUT causing any damage. Alan

I'm not an expert by any means, but my suggestions would be to try perhaps a really soft brush, like a soft tooth brush or a children's soft hair brush. Maybe some plain water or with a little mild soap added, nothing too strong and definitely no bleach. You could also try asking the parish church or cemetry office if they have a list of who is in the plot. Liz

www[.]lawsonshop[.]co[.]uk/mall/departmentpage[.]cfm/Lawson/50011/1/1 Remove brackets Headstone Cleaning Spray 500ml As a result of being exposed to the elements, mould, algae, lichen or moss can appear on natural stone, decorative plaster, brickwork, etc. HG headstone cleaning spray safely and effectively removes this growth. Spray HG headstone cleaning spray on to the surface to be treated from a distance of approximately 5 cm and allow it to work for 25 minutes. Remove any remains with a cloth or brush. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water. For a severe build up, repeat the procedure after approximately 30 minutes. 500 ml will clean approximately 3 m2 Price £6.95 Jim Leitch

wow, they actually make stuff specially for the job, well... you learn something new everyday. Liz

Thank you for your replies. The grave in question is of my Gt Grandfather his Wife & a Daughter which is carved in porous stone and over a 100 years old. Alan

For when you get it cleaned.... Dear Ancestor Your tombstone stands among the rest Neglected and alone The name and date are chiselled out On polished marble stone It reaches out to all who care It is too late to mourn You did not know that I exist You died and I was born Yet each of us are cells of you In flesh and blood and bone Our blood contracts and beats a pulse Entirely not our own Dear Ancestor..the place you filled One hundred years ago Spreads out among the ones you left Who would have loved you so I wonder if you lived and loved I wonder if you knew That someday I would find this spot And come to visit you. Author Unknown ============================== Gerri x

Alan, I have nudged a thread about cleaning headstones, please see top of this board. Betty

At the advice of someone on here (can't remember who) I always take a bottle of water with me when headstone hunting. If the writing is hard to read try pouring some water on it. Makes it a lot clearer, it works, honestly. Linda

Try using some flour where you think the inscription is. Enough usually clings to be able to make out the words. I have tried this with some success. Ellen X

Talculm powder works too, or rubbing gently with a piece of chalk. Jay