ET TENEO ET TENEOR
G. A. F.
OUR SON AND BROTHER

On the large gray granite family stone behind the white marble round top column, G.A.F. is listed:

George Albert French
1841 – 1864

The column dedicated to George Albert French has two main symbols dominating the marker—the ivy tied with a bow into a wreath and, in the middle of the wreath, a hand holding a Latin cross. Both symbols, like many symbols found in cemeteries, have several different meanings.

Ivy leaves are a common motif in American cemeteries and Victorian art. Because of ivy’s ability to survive in harsh weather and dry conditions, it has become associated with immortality and rebirth. Ivy leaves twinning up a gravestone can also represent friendship. Because of its ability to “hang on” the symbol has come to represent undying attachment.

The hand holding the cross is a obvious symbol of a person’s Christian faith. It can also represent the hope for eternal life.

Lastly the Latin epitaph, ET TENEO ET TENEOR, translates in English to “And I hold and I hold”. “I hold” is repeated twice for emphasis and conveys hanging on or not giving up–determination.