Hi Ken Read a little further before you decide using Shaving Cream on Tombstones. I would be very upset to find anyone (without permission) using shaving cream on one of my family Tombstones. I'm not sure which DAR suggested or mentioned this method, but our DAR works hand in hand with our Genealogy Society and we have had instructions on how to read and clean tombstones. I am very much against using shaving Cream and use only clear distilled bottled water which I buy at the Super Market. I realize that this method will take more time, but to me that is worth it if you are trying to protect and save the headstone. You also have to be very careful not to use a brush with stiff hard bristles. I also use a soft sponge and a soft cloth (old white T-Shirt) and make sure the stone is sturdy in the ground before attempting to do anything. There has been a lot of discussion of this, but most professionals will not use shaving cream. Here are some good URLS on the subject with reasons: genealogy.about.com/cs/cemeterytips/ www.savinggraves.com/education/shavingcream.htm www.savinggraves.com/education/rubbings.htm www.inmyattic.com/lancaster/records/cemetery/ how_to_photograph_headstones.htm Regards Pat R