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Tombstone Symbols: the Palm Frond & Wreath

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The palm frond, shown through the wreath above, may be seen as a symbol of victory. This is how the Romans used them. Christians adapted them to symbolize an individual's triumph over death.

In the instance above, I believe the wreath is another symbol for victory. Usually this would be attributed to the laurel wreath, also representing eternity and immortality.

W. L. Julian
Dec 31, 1864
Nov 13, 1907

Evergreen Cemetery
Ben Hill County, Fitzgerald, Georgia

(Photos © 2010-9 S. Lincecum)

Following is a death notice for Mr. Julian, found in the 22 November 1907 Tifton Gazette (Georgia):
Fitzgerald, Ga., November 14 -- Dr. W. L. Julian fell dead at Rogers' livery stable today. Dr. Julian was a highly respected citizen and worth a considerable amount of money. He quit practicing several years ago to look after his property. He was about sixty years of age, but appeared to be in very good health, except for the last few weeks he was very nervous. He is survived by a wife and three brothers.
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The hand of the Lord came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones. Then He caused me to pass by them all around, and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry. And He said to me, "Son of man, can these bones live?"

So I answered, "O Lord God, You know."

Again He said to me, "Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, 'O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!' Thus says the Lord God to these bones: 'Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live...'" (Ezekiel 37:1-5, NKJV)