As you might guess, the monument is rife with Masonic symbols, including a pair I knew nothing about. Please feel free to comment with any corrections. I make no boasts of expertise regarding Freemasonry.
Altar complete with knee rest, bearing the book of law (or Bible?) with the common square and compass on top. |
Probably best if I just link you to H T W S S T K S -- Huh? |
All seeing eye of God, or Eye of Providence, Masonic symbol dating back to 1797. A reminder that one's thoughts and deeds are always observed by the "Great Architect of the Universe." |
I was ignorant about the two columns and spheres in this last photo until I read a post at The Burning Taper. I was going to ascribe to these the meanings behind a column and sphere in "usual" tombstone symbolism, but there is a Masonic connection I knew nothing about. These, in this context, are most likely to represent the pillars of Boaz and Jachin, which stood as guards of the entrance to King Solomon's Temple, the first Temple in Jerusalem.