Hidden Meanings in Haunted Cemeteries

Gina Black is also known as She Haunts on Instagram, we love her photos and investigations.  She graced our May 2025 magazine cover, but here’s even more to love including her recent investigative article.

Somewhere under the canopy of an ancient oak tree, far from the hustle and bustle of daily life, lies a mossy covered headstone. On this headstone, is a carving done with careful and precise craftsmanship. The curved lines and soft edges bring an element of humanity to a cold and unforgiving stone surface. As you gaze upon this sculpture, you find yourself staring just a little longer. Is it perhaps that it seems familiar to you? Impossible. This cemetery is one you have never been to before this day. And with certainty, it hits you. You have seen something like this carving before at another cemetery. 

Throughout cemeteries across the United States and beyond, common cemetery monuments contain a lost language of hidden meanings. Certain sculptures and carvings were once used to describe a person, their life, and hopes for the afterlife. The idea of hidden symbolism was one that very much intrigued the people of the Victorian Era. Their deep devotion to loved ones, appreciation for art, and hope for the afterlife, drove a unique trend of headstone artistry. 

 The following symbolisms are most commonly found in cemeteries of those from the Victorian Era. The time period began in 1837, and officially ended in 1901. Trends of sculptures can continue after these years, however the highest concentration of examples will usually fall within this range. Examples may be discovered on headstones, mausoleums, and even cemetery gates. 

Fire has always represented a powerful and enchanting symbol since the dawn of mankind. In many cases, a force that defined early civilizations. An important example of flames in history is a connection to the ancient Greeks and the Olympic torch. If you come across a torch sculpture in a cemetery, it has some hidden symbolism. If the torch appears upright, this is a representation of immortality and the spirit of life. An upside-down torch symbolizes that a powerful life has ended. An extinguished flame on a torch represents the idea of death and mourning. 

 A handshake is used in many civilizations to formally introduce oneself, a way to greet people, and for sealing a deal or contract. The act of shaking someone’s hand is an important symbol of the human connection. The handshake symbol could represent an important relationship or bond within a family. This can mark a heartfelt farewell or it can represent the hope of reuniting again in the afterlife. The handshake can also represent God welcoming the deceased into heaven.

Roses on headstones are popular, and they have a unique list of hidden meanings. Generally, the rose represents love, beauty, and hope. Rose buds are usually found on gravestones for those whose lives did not have a chance to fully blossom. 

These buds are commonly used for headstones belonging to children under the age of 12. A rose in partial bloom represents a teenager or young adult. Sometimes the stems of the flowers will appear snapped. 

This is a representation of a life cut short. If two roses are seen together, this means a strong bond between a married couple. 

If you are intrigued by these hidden meanings, there are many more where that came from. By learning more about these symbols, we can appreciate the artistry and sentiment behind it. 

Next time you find yourself inside the gates of a cemetery, slow down and take in the views, there may be more than meets the eye.... 

⟶ Read the whole article as seen in the May 2025 print issue of ParaHouse Magazine. Follow Gina on her Instagram here.