This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: Leslie85223 Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.kansas.counties.cowley/942.2.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Ellen: What a wonderful idea! I probably would never have thought of contacting the local people who made the grave stones. Although I'm unsure as to whether or not my ancestors were provided with grave markers, one would certainly hope so . . . I've found in some cases where a burial had occurred, the family was unable to afford a permanent headstone. In places that involved extreme weather (most of America at some time of the year) the hand made wooden markers didn't last long . . . I'll keep your suggestion in mind for future use as well. Thank you for your time and sharing the "tip". In gratitude, Leslie Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.