Roots & Branches

Yes, I said Grave Torpedoes. Who knew there was such a thing? On July 6^th I watched an episode of “History Detectives” on PBS called “Cemetery Alarms” . By the way, I love this show. If you have never watched, the theme of the show is people write in with items that they believe to have great historical significance. I have never been disappointed yet. This is a great show for anyone that loves family history and all the little treasures that you may find hidden away.

The person that was requesting the research thought that he had a “Grave Torpedo” that was used to protect the precious items that would have been buried with someone deceased. It made sense to me. A little dangerous, but it might stop the dreaded grave robbers.

As the episode progressed and researcher began looking in the area that the owner lived in, Illinois I believe. Once the researcher visited the local mortuaries and historical societies, he was amazed to find exactly what he was looking for, but with a twist.

In the 1800’s the local medical schools found they had a shortage of “bodies” to do training on. Usually they were bodies that had been unclaimed from death row or local infirmaries and such. Unsavory characters would go out and dig up bodies for this purpose. To stop this practice, the “Grave Torpedo” was designed. To everyone’s surprise, it was not for the protection of valuables as was thought, but to protect the poor souls that had died and were unprotected.

My point in sharing this story is to first inform you of a possible danger when looking through old cemeteries. Ask the cemetery staff if these might have been used in the area you are researching. Also remember when placing flowers or memorial items to only dig or place items in the first foot of earth. The “torpedoes” should have been placed directly on top of the casket. By asking a few simple questions of the cemetery or city staff, you might save yourself some real trouble.

Another great point is to watch shows like “History Detectives” or “Antiques Roadshow” from time to time. Many of our items we cherish as just an heirloom my just give us that clue that we were hoping for.

So often we receive heirlooms from a parent, grandparent, etc.  We are so excited to now have the antique bowl or Great-Grandpa’s gun.  As time goes by we wonder where am I going to put this and how can I share this with my immediate family? 

Here are a few ideas.  You know that my big thing is family history and sharing the information with others.  The last couple years my husband and I have remodeled our kitchen.  On the cupboards I display many of my old crockery ware items.   Also there are vintage glass items, kitchen utensils, old cook books, etc.  One of my favorite things is a handmade wooden potholder rack of sorts.  My great-grandfather and great uncles made several and they are owned by several members of our very large family.  I think it represents the past and staying connected to my ancestors.  I just love it.

One of my good friends also fills her house with some of the coolest heirlooms from her family.  I first time I walked into her home, all I could do was stand there in ah of her great display.  There are family pictures, trunks, shows, dolls, jewelry, etc.  One item really caught my attention was her grandmothers dress form, outfitted with a vintage black dress and accessories.  Just gorgeous!

Here is what I think…..we should all display our wonderful family items along with pictures and add a brief explanation as to what it is and who it had belonged to.  Not only will this help us share our great treasures, but the items will be marked for future generations. 

With a barrowed line…”Picture this…”  having a family reunion and in the corner of your living room, everyone brings a special picture, book, shaving mug, old gun, steamer trunk, doll, cowboy hat or whatever that was handed down.  That person shows the item and shares the story of what they know about it and the person that it belonged to.  And of course have a movie camera rolling of the stroll down memory lane.  It could really bring up some amazing stories and you don’t want to miss them.   

Just by starting the conversation out with a simple hat pin and telling the story “Do you remember when Grandma Jones used to wear this to hold her hats in place” can soon become, “Hey and do you remember the time she told how she got it from her Grandmother Brown on her 16^th birthday?”.  One thing can lead to another, next thing bring out the family photo albums, family history books and home movies.  Without even knowing it, your extended family will be sharing information.  These are the definitely treasures to share.

 Special thanks to Leora Johnson Kraft for sharing her pictures of antiques with me.