Stories in Stone: Headstone Symbols and Community

Dates: November 24, 2025
Meets: M from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
 Location: Bozeman, MT - Museum of the Rockies
Cost:  $0.00

There are still openings remaining at this time.

Date Day Time
11/24/2025Monday3 PM to 5 PM

Please note: This course program requires membership in a 2025-2026 OLLI at MSU Membership

Description

This presentation explores the rich symbolism etched into headstones and their significance in understanding a community's cultural, historical and spiritual fabric. By decoding the motifs, designs and inscriptions found in cemeteries, we can better understand the stories these stones tell us about community values. This program highlights how headstone symbolism serves as a visual language, connecting us to the lives and legacies of those who came before.

Program Takeaways

  • Gain insight into the cultural and historical significance of headstone symbols.
  • Learn to decode the visual language of motifs, designs and inscriptions.
  • Understand how headstones reflect community values, beliefs and legacies.
  • Appreciate the connection between past generations and present-day communities through cemetery symbolism.
Fee:  $0.00

Bozeman, MT - Museum of the Rockies

600 West Kagy Blvd
Bozeman, Montana 59717

Crystal Alegria

Crystal Alegria is the executive director of The Extreme History Project, a nonprofit located in Bozeman. She has worked in public history at various museums and heritage organizations for the past twenty years. She works to bring history to the public and highlight the stories of marginalized people.