Numerous graves located within Saint Michaels Cemetery are marked with numerous symbols, many of which relate to fraternal organizations. The Masonic order is one of the predominant and reoccurring symbols amongst a variety of stones. One such stone is that of J. W. Ainswor who was born on May 10, 1846 and died October 30, 1928. Many prevalent members of the masons call St. Michaels home. Another frequently reoccurring symbol with in the cemetery is the Woodsman of the World. The primary goal of the Woodsman is to provide its members with financial security. Part of the woodsman’s service in the early stages of the organization is the dedication of a headstone. The Woodsman’s symbol varies, and many different ones can be found within Saint Michaels. The most common Woodsman’s symbol is a tree stump with wheat surrounding it and a banner encircling it saying “Dum Tacet Clamat”, meaning, “though silent he speaks”, and is found on a variety of Woodsman’s gravestones. This symbol can be found upon on, Louis L. Solari’s headstone. Another symbol relating to the fraternal organizations of Pensacola is the symbol of the Fellowship of the Odd Fellows. This symbol is found upon only two headstones within Saint Michaels. The symbol, which is three joining chain links, is found upon John P. Schad’s and William L Hubbird, died December 22, 1896, tombstones. The Knights of Columbus, a catholic organization, are also in the Cemetery. Their symbol is an ax with an anchor and a sword crossed behind it. Typically the words K of C is inscribed above. There are many symbols within the gates of Saint Michaels and a majority of these can be attributed to Fraternal Organizations.

Credits and Sources:

Avery Werenskjold, Undergraduate Student, University of West Flo