Woodmen of the World Log Tombstones
If you have spent any time in the historic section of Sumter Cemetery, you may have noticed some unique tombstones of various design patterned after logs. There are approximately 25+ of these headstones at the Sumter Cemetery of various configurations and including markers for three infants. These headstones are representative of the gravestones that were once provided by the fraternal organization Woodmen of the World to its members.
The Woodmen of the World was founded in the early 1800s in Omaha, Nebraska, by Joseph Cullen Root and quickly spread across the United States to become the largest beneficiary order of the time. Mr. Root was inspired by a sermon that used the analogy of woodmen clearing the forest to provide for their families and envisioned an organization that would clear away problems of financial security for its members. WOW was known for its rigorous physical test for membership, elaborate rituals that drew upon the forest for inspiration, death benefits ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on membership level and tree-like grave monuments. Today, the organization is called Woodmen Life and supports a variety of causes, including disaster relief efforts, youth programs and medical research. It provides insurance and financial services.
Woodmen of the World’s early tombstones were known as “Woodmen markers” or “Woodmen monuments.” They were designed to be easily recognized and unique and were typically made of limestone or marble. At one time, there were two basic patterns available, a tree trunk for adults and three stacked logs for children. A basic tombstone was provided, and additional features and sizes were available at additional cost. Grave markers were provided free of charge to deceased Woodmen until the mid-1920s when the cost became too prohibitive.
The tree trunk historically has represented the brevity of life. The markers used by the Woodmen featured a variety of distinctive symbols, including an axe and maul crossed over the stump, with the letters “WOW” carved above them. Other symbols that were sometimes included were a dove (peace), a broken limb (life cut short) and a bundle of sticks tied together (strength of unity).
Woodmen markers can still be found in cemeteries throughout the United States. While the markers were originally intended for use only by members of the Woodmen of the World, they eventually became popular with other fraternal organizations as well.
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