Brannon Monument Company

Throughout the ages, people have chosen to commemorate the lives of those loved, revered and respected. The common thread which has bridged civilizations and generations has been mankind's desire to remember loved ones by erecting monuments.

From pyramids to Indian burial mounds, public memorials such as Mt. Rushmore to simple private memorials, the creation of a monument has been the most common form of remembrance.

When the time comes to commemorate the life of someone very special, or perhaps to plan ahead for yourself, many factors should be considered. You will be purchasing something that, quite literally, will last forever. The monument you create may very well serve as a source of historical data for future generations. It is a purchase that should be made unhurriedly, with great care and consideration.

In creating a memorial, we reflect on the life of the individual(s) who it is for. The positive remembrance or affirmation of one's life can inspire anything from the overall design, shape, color or ornamentation. From listing children's names or a wedding date to religious or professional symbols and even lettering styles, each memorial can be as unique and special as the person who inspires its creation.

With regard to style, cemetery memorials range from simple flat, beveled or slant markers that lie on the ground, to elaborate upright monuments. Where cemetery regulations allow, memorials may also include crosses, statues, vases, and remembrance lamps.

Upright monuments come in a wide variety of styles, shapes and sizes. Some of the more popular are:

The horizontal tablet is wider than it is high and is usually set on a base. It can be sized to fit on one grave, two graves or a family lot.

The vertical tablet is tall, as the name implies, and may be set on a base or directly on the foundation.

Both horizontal and vertical tablets present ample space for inscriptions, carvings and other ornamentation.

Bevel markers are low, but not flat. The come in single or double sizes and can be personalized with symbols or inscriptions.

Slant markers are midway in height between the lower bevel markers and the larger upright monuments. They offer sufficient space for highly creative personalized design.

Flat markers lie flat to the ground. Their small size naturally restricts the decoration, although we can still personalize them to your desires. They are harder to locate in the cemetery.

Other styles can include full-size grave ledgers, crosses, and garden memorials such as benches or sundials.

Most memorials are made from granite. This stone is durable and is available in a wide range of colors, including black, grey, and a variety of reds, pinks, browns, greens, and blues. Other material used for memorialization include bronze and marble. Bronze is often used for flat markers and for ornamentation to granite memorials.

Similar to jewelry or clothing, granite comes in different quality levels, some of which may not be suitable for cemetery memorials. We are able to show you fine quality granites that accept different styles or lettering and ornamentation. As with many other things we purchase, keep in mind the features of quality, appearance, service and overall value in your consideration.

Our display has an extensive array of monuments. This allows you to see a variety of colors, shapes and lettering styles that are available. Pictures or brochures do not always adequately depict these important differences.

Individual cemeteries establish their own rules and regulations with respect to monuments and markers. These rules and regulations may differ substantially from cemetery to cemetery. Before you buy a cemetery lot, ask what kind of monuments and markers are permitted. Monument retailers are one of the best sources of information on cemetery policies in your community.

Some cemeteries only allow upright monuments in certain sections. Or they may impose restrictions on the size, which could limit your choice. When you purchase a cemetery lot, be sure to know fs traditional upright monuments are allowed and if there are limitations on location and size. Some cemeteries do not allow upright monuments. These cemeteries, which are often called memorial parks, allow only lawn level bronze or granite markers, thus greatly limiting your choices in memorialization. Likewise, some sections in cemeteries may be dedicated to certain styles: upright, flat, etc.

Many cemeteries charge a wide variety of fees for installation, perpetual care, etc. Some of these fees are legitimate business expenses but they may be attempts to steer consumers away from outside competition. Remember you have the legal right to purchase a monument from the source of your choice. We can assist you in understanding the rules and regulations in your local cemeteries.

As you can see, the type, size, and style of monument you want may influence your choice in cemetery property. The same time and consideration given to choosing a monument should be given to the choice of a cemetery. Remember, your choice should allow you to memorialize in the manner you so wish.