Gravestone rubbing is a technique that can be used to preserve the unique artwork found on many tombstones. If done properly, it can be a way to help decipher the tombstone’s inscription which may be worn with age. However, extreme caution should be taken when attempting to do a gravestone rubbing.
Keep the following in mind:
- Get permission. Some cemeteries do not allow gravestone rubbings. If not done properly, this process can actually harm the tombstone. Be sure to contact the cemetery sexton and gain permission before proceeding.
- Use Extreme Caution. Overtime, tombstones may become unstable due to the freezing and thawing of the ground. Also, many stones are hundreds of years old and may be in a state of deterioration. Pushing, leaning, etc. on the tombstone may not only cause harm to the stone, but to you as well.
Below are links that provide additional information regarding the proper techniques for gravestone rubbing.
The Association for Gravestone Studies – Rubbing Do’s and Don’ts
Gravestone Rubbing Art, Hobby, History, Ancestral Research from Squidoo
